Men often suffer in silence from domestic violence – 9&10 News

It’s a topic that sometimes slips under the radar when so much of the awareness of domestic violence centers around women. But men can also be victims of domestic violence.

Male domestic abuse happens more than people think, in both heterosexual and same-sex relationships.

In men, it often manifests differently than a direct blow to the face and can be more subtle. It can take on the appearance of verbal put-downs, mental and emotional abuse, and stalking. In extreme cases, physical violence and sexual abuse.

Oasis Family Resource Center director Mandy Sikkema said men face different barriers than women when trying to come forward.

“One in six men is affected by domestic violence,” said Sikkema. “The stigma of a man coming into our agency and saying he’s a survivor is a stigma in our community that we create ourselves. Because the thinking is, you’re a man, you should be able to do it, you should be able to put her in her place or tell her no, and that should be enough.”

Sikkema said that as our world evolves, with more women entering higher roles, the power and control dynamic that prevails in the breadwinner can sometimes lead to abuse.

Nationally, there are fewer resources for men who need help. However, the Oasis Family Resource Center provides assistance to men who are victims of domestic violence.

If you or someone you know is in a domestic violence situation, click on the links below.

Oasis Family Resource Center

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