An Initial Validation of a Measure of Personal and Social Perceptions of the Sexual Abuse of Males

Abstract

Objective/Method: The Sexual Abuse of Males Perceptions Scale (SAMPS) is a measure designed to assess an individual’s personal and projected social perceptions of myths about the sexual abuse of boys and men. Myths are rigid, stereotypical beliefs that invalidate the experiences and minimize the profound effects of sexual abuse on boys and men. This study establishes the initial psychometric properties for the SAMPS, based on a sample of 333 students enrolled in diverse courses (i.e., business, psychology, social work, urban and regional planning, and education) at a large, southern university. Results/Conclusions: The SAMPS was developed as a three-factor instrument. Preliminary findings confirm this structure and indicate the SAMPS shows promise for future uses relating to training, research, and clinical practice.