Betrayed as Boys: Psychodynamic Treatment of Sexually Abused Men

As an experienced professional who has worked with many people with trauma histories, I can attest to the fact that Dr. Gartner's book is a significant contribution to our field. The complexities of his book would appeal to any clinician who works with sexual abuse survivors. What I also found is that while Dr. Gartner specifically speaks to the issues and dynamics of sexually abused men, there is much relavance to clinical work with sexually abused women. It is truly a MUST read for professionals who work with this population (male or female). On another level, his book is written such that a lay reader, or perhaps someone who has experienced abuse, would find it appealing as it compassionately, nonjudgmentally, and thoroughly illustrates many of his clients' experiences.

As a sexually abused male, I turned to this book for some understanding of my reactions and how I was affected by my history. I was stunned by the breadth and depth of what I read. I saw myself on page after page. This book was written for professionals but, unlike many such books, it is completely accessible to an educated layman. I have never seen the research in this area put together in one place, especially with such dexterity and balance. This is not a simple area to understand, but Gartner does it justice, explaining complicated ideas in ways that make complete sense. The book's impact is heightened by the many complex, poignant, and compassionate case histories used throughout to illustrate his points. These stories vividly bring to life the ideas Gartner is describing, making the reader grasp the full extent of how sexual abuse affects boys and men, and why it affects different males differently. Some of the stories pack an incredible emootional wallop, but then so does sexual abuse. If you aren't satisfied with the simplistic bromides of "sexual abuse lite," then this is the book for you. Bravo!

Gartner's work deconstructs sexuality in ways that a layman (like me) can understand. He then takes its components and explains how each of them is affected when a boy experiences sexual abuse. He shows us the myriad of possibilities a therapist might face in the adult who emerges from that abuse. And, bravely, he shows us the therapist as a human being who doubts, rejoices, struggles -- all while working in the (often highly charged) moment with the patient. BETRAYED AS BOYS is an excellent, highly accessible distillation of vastly complex topic. And it's fascinating to read.

Dr. Richard Gartner has compiled an excellent text that reviews the current literature of childhood abuse, its treatment & the hope for solace for the adult survivor. This is one of the first books directed at males (another excellent book is Victims No Longer). Complete with case summaries and indepth review of issues facing male survivors in their past & present lives, this book comes with my highest recommendation.