MACA 2025 Annual Conference Keynote

The Emerging Face of Male Sexual Trauma in Popular Culture

Cinematic depictions of sexual trauma tell us stories, but not necessarily facts. Still, movies are often reflective of popular culture – showing us the rules of what can be said and what should stay silent.  Using movie culture as a backdrop, the struggle to recognize male sexual abuse and assault in broader society will be explored.

From examples of near invisibility, victim-blaming as well as periodic “breakthroughs” that challenge the dominant discourse, this presentation will weave first-person narrative, gleanings from trauma theory and gender discourse to challenge all of us to (re)consider survivors’ truth, voice and story of male-identified individuals of all ages.

Rick Goodwin, MSW, RSW, is a clinician, manager, and trainer on issues concerning men’s mental health. Much of his work over the past 25 years has focused on male sexual trauma – managing both regional and national initiatives in Canada. Along with leading clinical training initiatives at 1in6, he also serves as the Managing Director of Men & Healing: Psychotherapy for Men. Rick’s research and writing have been published in both national magazines and federal publications. He was awarded a Meritorious Service Medal from the Governor-General of Canada in 2020.