Male Victims of Domestic Violence: Exploring Stigma

Abstract

This capstone project explores the prevalence and impacts of domestic abuse on male victims using feminist theory as a guiding lens. This paper explores the dynamics at play in the broader society which influence the perceptions that exist around the topic of domestic violence. Through understanding and identifying stigma and other factors occurring within society, this paper aims to help gain an insight into what is occurring for male victims of domestic violence. This paper examines the types of abuse that occur and the gendered differences in experiencing them. Further the societal pressures and assumptions tied to gendered roles are examined in the context of domestic abuse experienced by men. The larger aim discussed at the conclusion of this capstone is to take the step from understanding the stigma to reducing it at an individual and a societal level.