Child Sexual Abuse in Boys: Implications for Primary Care

• Primary care nurse practitioners can identify suspected child sexual abuse in boys.
• Screening for child sexual abuse can be done in a nonjudgmental manner.
• Disclosure of sexual abuse by the boy is the most reliable diagnostic indicator.
• Examine the child for other signs of abuse and neglect.
• Children need follow-up on mental health concerns and referrals.

Child sexual abuse occurs in both girls and boys. The public is more aware of the occurrence of sexual abuse in boys, but boys who experience sexual abuse are not always detected because of disclosure concerns. The sequelae of child sexual abuse in boys can lead to risky health behaviors and psychological problems later in life. Primary care nurse practitioners can screen and identify child sexual abuse in their patients. This article discusses recent evidence on child sexual abuse in boys, provides clinical practice guidance for its identification, and recommends referral sources and follow-up visits.