Many people may not realize that domestic violence includes acts of aggression against men as well as women. Because men are generally physically stronger than women, many people do not consider that men can be battered by women. However, men are also victims of domestic violence and the consequences are the same regardless of the gender of the victim.
Domestic violence occurs when one partner in an intimate relationship uses abusive behavior against the other person to control and dominate the relationship. According to statistics from the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, one in four men have been victims of some form of physical violence inflicted by an intimate partner in their lifetime. For one in seven men, the violence is severe. One out of every 71 men in the United States has been raped in their lifetime and almost half of the victims were raped by someone they knew.
Physical and Psychological Abuse
Many abusers are also psychologically abusive. Domestic violence has many forms including manipulation, coercion, and intimidation. Abusers may belittle and insult their partners, especially by targeting their manhood, sexual performance, athletic ability, economic status and earning abilities.
Abusers may also use their children as pawns in the relationship or otherwise be manipulative by threatening to leave or forcing their partner to leave regularly. Abusers can restrict their partner’s movements out of the house and prevent them from seeing friends and family, or take away their financial independence. Physically they may spit, kick, bite, shove, punch, or throw and break things when angered.
Effect on Victims
Victims of domestic violence often suffer from low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and unresolved anger. Men may not speak out because of feelings of shame, fear of retribution including losing their children or families, or out of fear that they will not be believed if they admit to being abused.
They may turn to drugs or alcohol to escape the reality of their violent environment. Victims often miss work days and can lose their job due to reasons related to the abuse. Survivors of domestic violence often have long lasting or permanent problems with physical and mental health, and in their relationships with family, friends and children.
Anyone who witnesses abuse should intervene and call the National Domestic Violence Hotline. If possible, men who are abused should leave their current situation. Do not be provoked into retaliation and further the violence. Contact a local domestic abuse center for help and support. Above all, try to collect evidence and document the abuse as much as possible because evidence will help the case against your abuser.
Towson Domestic Violence Lawyers at Huesman, Jones and Miles, LLC Counsel Male Victims of Domestic Violence
If you or a loved one is suffering from abuse in your relationship, contact a Towson domestic violence lawyer at Huesman, Jones and Miles, LLC. Call 443-589-0150 today or contact us online for a free and confidential initial consultation. From our offices in Towson and Hunt Valley, we serve clients in the greater Baltimore area and throughout the state of Maryland.