According to the ncadv.org, here are some shocking statistics on domestic violence:
- On average, 20 people per minute are physically abused by an intimate partner in the U.S. This equates to more than 10 million women and men.
- 1 and 3 women and 1 in 4 men have been victims of severe physical violence by an intimate partner in their lifetime.
- 1 and 7 women and 18 men have been stalked by an intimate partner during their lifetime- to the point in which they felt very fearful and believed that someone close to them can be harmed or killed.
Domestic violence is a gender issue
Those are just a few out of the many statistics on domestic violence. What’s more shocking; According to a national study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and the Department of Justice, over 40% of victims of severe physical violence are men. What does this mean?
It simply means that domestic violence is a gender issue. More often, than not, when you hear of domestic violence cases you hear about the abuse of women. While the statistics are shocking for both genders, domestic violence shouldn’t happen at all. But, it does. And while men are victims of domestic violence, you rarely hear about their cases. However, men can play an important role in stopping abuse against women and other men.
We believe that men can play a huge part in changing the abuse towards women and other men.
Men must be open and talk about challenging topics like domestic violence. They should realize they have a voice and their words can promote change, however. Some men refrain from getting involved in domestic violence situations because of the following:
- They want to avoid conflict
- They feel uncomfortable
- They know of abuse but ignore it
- They don’t count emotional abuse as physical abuse
- They make excuses for their friends “bad” behavior
This is a disturbing issue that must be changed. Men can help change the abuse towards women and other men by:
- Speaking up and becoming an advocate against domestic violence
- Invest in programs like MEND that educate boys and men about healthy masculinity and gender violence.
- Support survivors of domestic violence
- Mentor men and young boys. Teach them how to respect and appreciate women of all ages
- Get professional help if they feel they are engaging in abusive behavior
- Talk to abusive friends/colleagues and let them know it’s not okay to abuse women
- Show women love, affection and appreciation
- Get involved. If you see something, say something. Or call the proper authorities.
When it comes to stopping domestic violence, both women and men can become strong advocates and speak up to stop all kinds of abuse and controlling behavior.
If you or someone you know are victims of domestic violence, please call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233. Or contact us at B.E. A. S.H.E.R.O. Foundation and we can provide you with the proper resources to get you the help you need.
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