Stereotypes and myths create stigma, making it even harder for men to summon up their courage to seek support, thereby increasing the risk for those living in abusive relationships. These attitudes add to feelings of despair and isolation often felt by those suffering and are deeply unfair.
Nobody deserves to be abused and there is no justification for violent crime. Domestic abuse can happen to anyone – being “a good husband/partner” does not stop someone from being victimised.
Statistically, 1 in 6 men will suffer abuse in their lives.
‘What about men being abused’
Domestic abuse affects men too. It is estimated that one in six men will experience domestic abuse at some time in their lives. This can be sexual, domestic, financial and emotional abuse.
Men are not real men if they can’t take it
Finding yourself in an abusive relationship can happen to anyone, it does not matter how physically strong or large a man is – emotional and physical abuse can have a debilitating effect on someone’s confidence and self-esteem regardless of how physically strong they may lead to a life of fear behind closed doors.
Because they often feel society’s stigma it can be even harder to seek support and acknowledge they are being abused BECAUSE of the opinion above. Men are often not believed when they do come forward/report. It is therefore important that myths like these are stamped out.
She/he/they wouldn’t lash out for anything…
As we have seen in the other articles about myths and stereotypes – it has nothing to do with “deserving” as no one deserves to be abused, neither is it lashing out – it is a crime to assault anyone regardless of their gender.
Domestic abuse is purposeful and systematic behaviour that occurs without a two-sided argument.
Finally, Domestic Abuse affects people from ALL backgrounds, also it affects people of all ages – there is no age or society limit to someone finding themselves trapped in an abusive relationship. If you are affected by abuse there are support services that can offer you information about your options and further support.