Adult male victims of sexual assault appear to have similar reactions to female victims, but are more stigmatized, may experience greater subsequent anger and guilt, and are even less likely to report the offence than females. Increased recognition of these assaults is called for, both in law and by victim support agencies, in order to reduce the stigma, encourage reporting and facilitate the enforcement of criminal justice. © 1987, The British Academy of Forensic Sciences. All rights reserved.