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By Nsereko Jonathan
Men’s abuse, also known as domestic violence against men, is a serious issue that is often overlooked. Domestic violence has long been considered a women’s issue. However, violence against men by women has become a common problem today.
This includes economic, physical, sexual, and emotional abuse, as well as psychological abuse that harms a person’s mental and physical health. Both men and women can be victims of gender-based violence.
In a country like Uganda, which has been female-dominated for centuries, people find it difficult to believe that men can be victims of domestic violence just like women. Domestic violence against men is usually only acknowledged when a high-profile incident arises. In most cases, it is when a celebrity comes forward to report the abuse.
For example, Daily Monitor published a story about how men in Bushenyi suffer in silence under violent wives. The story highlighted Mr. Luciano Baguma, who was grappling with domestic violence perpetrated by his wife. Any time he sought help from the police and local authorities, his efforts did not yield any hope for change. Sadly, he was involved in a fatal accident that claimed his life.
His death shocked the community, with some members attributing his death to depression and the effects of domestic abuse. On a global level, we have had a few cases to support our study. Johnny Depp, a movie star famous for his role in Pirates of the Caribbean, presented evidence of domestic abuse by his ex-wife Amber Heard during their defamation trial.
Another case is that of Tiger Woods, a popular golfer, who reported physical violence perpetrated by his wife, who attacked him with a golf club. Sadly, these incidents are often dismissed as isolated events. The male victim is usually perceived as having done something to deserve the abuse.
However, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 1 in 10 men has experienced some form of intimate partner violence. Over their lifetime, 1 in 3 men has encountered abusive acts.
Why Is Domestic Violence Against Men Underreported?
Men are reluctant to report abuse because they feel embarrassed, fear they won’t be believed, or are scared that their partner will seek revenge. Male victims of domestic violence tend to keep the abuse a secret. Often, men also feel that no one will believe them.
Unfortunately, there are also situations where agencies meant to help victims treat male victims with indifference. Support agencies fail to recognize the abuse of men and overlook cases involving female abusers.
How Can Male Victims of Domestic Violence Be Helped?
1.Raising Awareness: One of the first steps to helping male victims is to raise awareness about the issue of domestic violence against men. Public campaigns, education in schools, and media representation can challenge societal norms and perceptions, showing that men, too, can be victims of abuse.
- Providing Safe Spaces: Male victims of domestic violence often feel isolated and unable to access support. Creating male-specific shelters and support groups can provide a safe space for them to express their experiences and seek help.
3.Support Hotlines and Counseling: Offering confidential hotlines and counseling services specifically for male victims can be a crucial lifeline. These services should be staffed with trained professionals who understand the unique challenges faced by male victims, such as stigma and the fear of being disbelieved.
4.Encouraging Reporting: Law enforcement and social service agencies must actively encourage male victims to report abuse without fear of ridicule. Specialized training for police and other service providers can help ensure that male victims are taken seriously and treated with the same respect and attention as female victims.
- Legal Protection and Resources: Legal systems should provide the same protection for male victims as for female victims. This includes access to restraining orders, custody rights, and other legal resources that ensure their safety and well-being. In addition, legal aid should be available to help male victims navigate the process.
- Breaking the Silence: Encouraging open dialogues about domestic violence involving men, through media, support groups, and community outreach, can break the silence surrounding the issue. Male survivors can share their stories and provide guidance to others who are experiencing similar abuse.
7.Mental Health Support: Domestic violence can have long-lasting psychological effects. Offering mental health support tailored to the needs of male victims—such as therapy, group sessions, or peer support groups—can help them recover from trauma and rebuild their lives.
Domestic violence against men is a hidden and often ignored issue, but it is one that must be addressed. The stigma surrounding male victimhood, combined with a lack of support systems, means that many men suffer in silence. However, by raising awareness, providing resources, and changing societal perceptions, we can help break the cycle of abuse.
Male victims need access to shelters, counseling, legal protection, and mental health support, just as female victims do. It is crucial to recognize that domestic violence affects people of all genders, and that both men and women deserve to live free from violence.
Only by acknowledging the problem and offering comprehensive support can we ensure that all victims of domestic violence, regardless of gender, receive the help they need to heal and rebuild their lives.
The writer is a Men and Boys mentor
Nsereko Jonathan
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