Date of Conferral

2021

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Health Services

Advisor

Jana Price-Sharps

Abstract

AbstractThe focus of this study was on males who have experienced intimate partner violence. Abused men experience unique stressors that include societal minimization of the problem. This qualitative study examined the perceptions of abused men regarding mental health services and whether their attitudes about services have changed over time. Participants were men over the age of 18 who had previously been involved in a relationship where they were the victims of domestic violence. Six male participants who experienced abuse were interviewed. Upon the completion of the interviews, the process of phenomenological reduction aided in the recognition of the feelings and experiences of male victims of abuse in relation to mental health support options and in the identification of themes that detailed their experiences (Marshall & Rossman, 2011). They acknowledged that the stigma associated with males being victims of domestic violence was a primary reason for their reticence to reach out for help or seek mental health services. Over time they felt like their mental health was slowly improving and they had a more favorable view of mental health services. The participants noted that they felt like no one would believe them and that there still are not enough services for men who are victims of domestic violence. A benefit for positive social change from this study is to increase awareness of IPV of males by female or male partners, shedding light on the debilitating effects of the abuse and how the abuse might affect relationships with this male population. Awareness of IPV in the male population may influence the implementation of appropriate programs and support systems that men healing from abuse and potential traumas associated with IPV may need. ‘

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