When we think of abuse, it’s often associated with women and children as the primary victims. However, the abuse of men is a reality that is less frequently discussed or acknowledged in society. Despite the societal assumption that men are always the perpetrators of abuse or that they are inherently strong and resilient, many men experience various forms of abuse—physical, emotional, sexual, and psychological—often suffering in silence due to the stigma and lack of resources available to them.
Forms of Abuse Against Men
Abuse of men can take on many forms, similar to the types of abuse women endure. However, the issue is often minimized or ignored because of deep-rooted gender norms that suggest men are incapable of being victims or should be able to “toughen up.” Here are the main forms of abuse that men may experience:
- Physical Abuse
While physical abuse against women is more widely reported, men also experience physical violence, often at the hands of intimate partners, family members, or even strangers. According to studies, a significant number of men suffer from domestic violence, but they are far less likely to report it than women due to fear of ridicule, embarrassment, or being disbelieved. Men might feel societal pressure to maintain an image of strength, making them hesitant to admit they are victims of physical abuse.
- Emotional and Psychological Abuse
Emotional abuse can be even more subtle and pervasive than physical abuse. Men often endure emotional manipulation, verbal abuse, and psychological control in their relationships. This form of abuse can involve constant belittling, humiliation, gaslighting, and controlling behaviors designed to undermine the victim’s confidence and self-worth.
In some cases, abusive partners may exploit societal expectations that men must be stoic and unemotional, making it harder for male victims to identify and admit they are being abused. Psychological abuse can lead to severe mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts.
- Sexual Abuse
Sexual abuse against men is a subject that receives even less attention, yet it happens more often than is acknowledged. Male sexual abuse can occur in many contexts, including within intimate relationships, workplaces, or institutions. Men may be sexually coerced or assaulted by both men and women. Unfortunately, societal taboos surrounding male sexual abuse create additional barriers for men to come forward and seek help. Many male victims are reluctant to report sexual abuse due to fears of being judged or not being taken seriously.
- Financial Abuse
Financial abuse occurs when a partner or family member controls or manipulates a man’s access to money or economic resources, thereby restricting his autonomy and freedom. Men may be coerced into surrendering their income, having their spending monitored, or being denied access to their own financial resources. Financial abuse can severely limit a man’s ability to leave an abusive situation, as they may feel financially trapped.
Stigma and Societal Pressure
One of the biggest obstacles preventing men from reporting or seeking help for abuse is the stigma attached to male victimhood. Society often views men as physically stronger, emotionally tougher, and inherently less vulnerable than women, reinforcing the notion that men cannot be victims of abuse. This mindset discourages men from admitting they are being abused, fearing that they will be seen as weak or unmanly.
Men who experience abuse may also be met with skepticism or even ridicule, particularly when it comes to abuse perpetrated by women. Traditional gender roles perpetuate the idea that men should be able to defend themselves against abuse, especially physical abuse, leading to underreporting and a lack of societal support.
