Ending the stigma of male domestic violence and abuse victims: A mixed-methods study

Abstract

Male domestic violence and abuse (DVA) victims experience great levels of stigma, and as such, research that explores public perceptions of this group is needed to reduce barriers to reporting and attract gender-sensitive support. Across two studies, this paper investigates public perceptions of male victims of DVA through a mixed methods approach. In study one, 202 participants provided judgements of vignettes depicting a scenario of DVA, which differed as a function of victim sex and whether a ‘justification’ (i.e., infidelity) for DVA was present. After controlling for participant age, sex, and own victimisation, vignettes featuring male victims and victim infidelity were viewed more harshly. In study two, comparative deductive thematic analysis was used to explore qualitative perceptions of male DVA victims between men who did and did not identify as being a victim of DVA. Results indicated a lack of knowledge and awareness surrounding male DVA victims' experiences and support available, in addition to doubt in the support services’ and Criminal Justice System’s (CJS) ability to effectively respond to male victims. This paper highlights the need for gender-sensitive support, in addition to improvements across educational pathways, support services, and the CJS to end the stigmas attached to male DVA victims.