November 14, 2024

The Truth About Domestic Violence Against Men

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Table of Contents

Contributors & Editors

Gage Smith

Writer

Updates

Last Update on November 20, 2024

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Domestic violence against men is a big issue that gets overlooked or ignored. Just like women, men can be victims of abuse and face challenges that can affect their lives deeply.

Understanding male victimhood is key to breaking the silence, busting the myths, and encouraging those affected to get the help they need.

Understanding Domestic Violence Against Men

Domestic violence against men means any pattern of abusive behavior to control a male partner.

This can take many forms physical, emotional, psychological, and financial. Male victims face unique challenges being seen as “weak” or fearing others will judge them for being abused.

Types of abuse:

  • Physical Abuse: Physical harm, hitting, slapping, or any form of physical intimidation.
  • Emotional Abuse: Manipulation, name-calling, and constant criticism to break down self-esteem.
  • Psychological Abuse: Threats, intimidation, or gaslighting to create fear or confusion.
  • Financial Abuse: Controlling finances, restricting access to money, or forcing financial dependency.

Call to Action

If you or someone you know is being abused, help is available. Cornerstone Healing Center offers therapy and support for male victims, to get the care they need to move on. Contact us today to start healing.

Common Signs of Domestic Abuse in Men

Men can experience signs of abuse that are hard to see. They can come in many forms and can lead to isolation and loss of freedom.1

Signs:

  • Isolation: Partner cutting off contact with friends and family.
  • Manipulation: Emotional guilt-tripping or gaslighting.
  • Physical Harm: Physical force or violence.
  • Verbal Abuse: Yelling insults, or putting down their partner to lower self-worth.

Recognize the Signs…

Domestic violence against men is often overlooked but looking out for the signs is key. If you see isolation, emotional manipulation, or physical harm it’s abuse. Remember reaching out for help is a step to safety and healing.

Myths and Misconceptions about Male Victims of Domestic Violence

There are many myths and misconceptions about male victims of domestic violence. Some people believe men can’t be victims or men are too strong to be abused. These myths perpetuate the stigma and stop men from seeking help.

We need to acknowledge men can be victims and domestic violence statistics show men are abused at the same rate as women.2

Support is Available…

If you’re being abused, know there is help. The National Domestic Violence Hotline is confidential 24/7 at 1-800-799-7233.3 Cornerstone Healing Center offers therapy and support groups for men. Contact us today!

The Emotional Toll of Domestic Violence on Men

Domestic violence doesn’t just hurt physically it leaves deep emotional scars, especially for men who suffer in silence. If you’re a man who has been abused you may be dealing with trauma, depression, anxiety, or feelings of shame.

These feelings can make it hard to get through the day, affect your mental health, and strain your relationships. Reaching out for help is a big and important first step to healing.

Treatment Options for Male Victims of Domestic Violence

There are several treatment options for male survivors of domestic violence, all tailored to their needs:

  • Individual Therapy: therapy to process trauma and regain confidence.
  • Support Groups: Connect with others to reduce isolation and get support.
  • Trauma-Focused Therapy: Therapy to process and heal from trauma.
  • Gender-Specific Therapy: Programs like Cornerstone Healing Center cater to the unique challenges male survivors face.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes men can experience domestic violence, physical, emotional, or financial. Recognizing this helps to reduce the stigma and provides support.

Signs are physical harm, emotional manipulation, isolation, and financial control. Men may not seek help as they don’t recognize the signs.

Men can get help through helplines, counseling, and support groups. Many organizations including Cornerstone Healing Center have safe spaces to heal.

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Key Takeaways

Breaking the Silence

Breaking the silence about domestic violence against men is the first step to healing. Reaching out for help is not a sign of weakness it’s a brave step towards safety and wellness.

If you or someone you know is being abused remember help is available. Cornerstone Healing Center can provide gentle therapy and resources to support male victims. Get in touch today to start the journey to recovery.

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Author & Reviewers

lionel estrada lisac clinical director
CLINICAL DIRECTOR & REVIEWER

Lionel is the Clinical Director of Cornerstone’s Scottsdale treatment facilities. He has had over 4 years at Cornerstone. He is personally in recovery and passionate about helping others overcome substance abuse and mental health challenges; he is trained as an EMDR, adopting a trauma-informed approach to treat the underlying issues.

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