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Hidden Wounds

By: Randy Mitchell & Emmanuel Heard

OVERVIEW

Male domestic violence is a serious issue that remains largely underreported. An estimated 1 in 7 men experience severe physical violence in their lifetime, and nearly 49% report psychological aggression. However, many men do not seek help due to social stigma and fears of being seen as weak. In Ohio, domestic violence contributes to significant mental health challenges for male survivors, including depression, PTSD, and anxiety. Yet, the problem is often overlooked, with male victims being less likely to report their abuse compared to female victims. This silent crisis calls for increased awareness, better support services, and a reduction in the stigma surrounding male victimization to ensure that men receive the help they need.

(Men Experiencing Domestic Violence. DomesticShelters.org. (n.d.)).

PROBLEM STATEMENT

In Ohio, domestic violence against men remains a significantly underreported and often overlooked issue. Many male victims do not come forward due to societal expectations that men should be emotionally resilient, self-reliant, and serve as the primary source of strength within a household. These gender norms contribute to a culture of silence, where men fear being perceived as weak, unmasculine, or not credible.

As a result, their cases frequently go unheard or unresolved, leading to long-term psychological consequences. The lack of awareness, support systems, and tailored resources for male survivors of domestic violence perpetuates a cycle of stigma and emotional suppression, leaving many without the help they need.

OBJECTIVES

  • This can create a legal environment where victims feel powerless and unsupported further entrenching the cycle of abuse.

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  • Furthermore domestic violence can lead to social isolation for victims as abusers often work to sever their connections with friends family and support networks.

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  • Various acts of violence to maintain masculine status thereby reinforcing the idea that men are not only required to engage in acts of violence.

WHAT WE LEARNED

Thank you for your investment in our Youth Leaders: City of Cleveland, Case Western Reserve University Sears think[box]; DigitalC; RPM International Inc.; CHN Housing Partners; Ratner Family Foundation; Youth Opportunities Unlimited; Cleveland EMS; The Vanguards of Cleveland & Cleveland Fire; Kimberly Inthavong of Seven Ways To Live; Mary Nazimiec; Kevin Ringer; and Tasty Treasures.

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PROPOSED SOLUTION

  • Find a local domestic violence agency such as, The Haven Home, where they provide open therapy sessions.

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  • We can link them to resources that will help them leave their abuser. (ex. flyers, handouts and meetings)

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  • Contact programs and services in your area that assist victims of domestic violence and their children. (ex. YWCA Greater Cleveland )

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  • National Domestic Violence Hotline (800-799-72313)

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SPECIAL THANKS

  • In case of male domestic violence, 33% of men report the experience of domestic violence in Cleveland.
  • Cleveland’s Department of Public Health mainly focuses on homicide and gun cases.
  • The prevalence of male domestic violence in Cleveland reflects broader trends observed nationally research indicates that both men can be both victims one perpetrators of domestic violence.

SOURCES

https://www.stepforwardtoday.org/post/ohio-domestic-violence-rates-surge-step-forward-s-commitment-to-community-support

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https://socialwork.gmu.edu/resources-male-victims-domestic-violence

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https://www.thehotline.org/

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https://www.helpguide.org/relationships/domestic-abuse/domestic-violence-against-men

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