Is a Man You Know a Victim of Domestic Violence?
Domestic violence: many have a hard time believing that men can be the victims, but the truth is that what happens behind closed doors can be very surprising. Although it may seem far-fetched, there are actually some pretty standard signs that suggest a man may be suffering from this type of psychological, emotional, or physical abuse, and he needs help. To be clear, the bottom line in any domestic violence (DV) situation is control and coercion—which means more men may be susceptible to it than we might imagine.
Symptoms Indicating Possible Abuse
It could be a family member, friend, colleague, or someone you attend religious services with—but the classic symptoms are the same. Trauma causes changes in behavior and/or demeanor, whether they occur in the workplace, in social settings, or in patterns of behavior. In some instances, a man’s physical appearance and attire may change, as well.
Psychological Abuse
Men who seem afraid of their partners are often suffering from psychological abuse. They then experience anxiousness, depression, withdrawal, and even suicidal thoughts, and may decide to drown their sorrows in drugs or alcohol. This comes as a result of:
- Constantly reporting in to their partner;
- Being criticized and belittled in front of others;
- Having one’s children turned against him;
- Being falsely accused of abuse;
- Being accused of being nuts;
- Being isolated from family and friends;
- Agreeing to whatever their partner wants;
- Dealing with a partners’ outrageous possessiveness and jealousy;
- Being threatened when contemplating leaving.
Physical Abuse
For some men, escalating physical abuse occurs because they may be physically unable or unwilling to protect themselves from a partner’s angry outbursts. Telltale signs include:
- Blaming frequent injuries on “accidents;”
- Missing work or social gatherings often, sometimes with no explanation;
- Wearing things with the intent of cloaking scars and bruises, such as long sleeves despite warm temperatures.
Why Signs are Often Overlooked
Women who show up for an annual exam with their doctor would be questioned about bruises or cuts. But men’s wounds often go unchecked, partly because DV is thought of as a gendered event, and men are simply not given the concern and empathy they need when they show signs of being victimized. Missed opportunities to identify and intervene in situations where men are being harmed can leave them feeling more humiliated and isolated than ever. And we know that DV tends to escalate over time, putting them at greater risk of serious—even fatal outcomes.
Do You Suspect DV is Impacting a Man You Know?
Anyone who is experiencing intimate partner violence deserves help—regardless of gender. If you suspect something and are concerned about the safety of someone you know, call the police. At the Law Office of Julia Kefalinos, our dedicated, compassionate Miami domestic violence attorneys are here to help. Together, let’s end the suffering. Schedule a confidential consultation in our Miami office today.
Source:
mankind.org.uk/help-for-victims/is-a-man-you-know-a-victim-spotting-the-signs/
