A Phenomenological Case Study of Blind Male Masseuses Experiencing Sexual Assault: Implication for Nursing Practice

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Having experience of sexual assault may bring a great impact on the lives of blind male masseuses. However, a deep understanding of the consequences is currently still not largely explored. AIM: The purpose of this study was to explore the experience of sexual assault and the consequences of sexual assaults incidents which occurred in the lives of blind male masseuses. METHODS: This study used a phenomenological case study design. Interviews were conducted with nine blind male masseuses who had experienced sexual assault while carrying out their profession in Semarang city, Indonesia. The data were analyzed using Giorgi analysis. RESULTS: The experience of being sexually assaulted disrupts almost all of the participants’ lives for a relatively long period of time, and even it is still felt at the present. To release and reduce the fear and trauma caused by sexual assault, the participants consciously drew themselves closer to God as the main thing to do. A prayer to God to be protected from being the victim of sexual assault is a participant’s devotion while carrying out their worship ritual. Talking to other blind masseuses also helps them to find the solutions needed to rebuild their lives. However, the participants tend to feel ashamed and reluctant to convey how such sexual assault has affected their lives to present time. CONCLUSION: Even though the participants have adapted and rebuilt their lives, the residue of sexual assault impact is still felt and remains for a long time. Self-protection training and assistive devices for blind masseuses to prevent the recurrence of sexual assault are significantly important and should be considered to be implemented by nurses.