Men and Domestic Violence
Domestic violence is not
gender specific. There is often a preconceived notion that abuse only happens to women. However, statistics show that 1 in 7 men has been the victim of severe physical violence by an intimate partner in his lifetime. Of course, domestic violence is not limited to physical
violence. Other forms of domestic violence against men include verbal abuse,
belittling, possessiveness, jealousy, controlling and/or manipulative behaviors,
and isolation.
There are many reasons
men won’t disclose violence in their relationship or leave an abusive partner. Due to gender roles imposed by society, men who experience domestic violence feel
ashamed because they believe they are not fitting into the quintessential role
of “protector” and “provider”. Abuse to
men is often minimized because society has created a culture that believes a
man should be able to protect himself. Men also may not disclose because they fear
losing custody of their children or they are not aware of resources available to assist them.
Domestic violence and
abuse can have long-term physical and psychological effects on the victim and children
who witness abuse. Services are available to both male and female victims (and
any child witnesses) at Transitions of PA. If you are the victim of domestic violence,
please do not hesitate to reach out to our 24-hour hotline at 1-800-850-7948.
For more information, visit the following websites:
Written by: Adam H., Counselor/Advocate
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