Abused men can suffer from serious psychological trauma when theyve been sexually or physically assaulted by a partner, according to research conducted in England.
The research involved review of two decades worth of domestic violence cases where men were victimized. The researchers found that men in such cases suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder, suicidal thoughts, and depression.
It also revealed significant underreporting by male victims since stigma prevents men from revealing their abuse. For example, they are less likely to report serious injuries as well as psychological or less violent abuse cases. Police are less likely to arrest female abusers, as well.
Lead author Anna Randle expressed the need for appropriate support structures for abused men.
"Given the stigma surrounding this issue and the increased vulnerability of men in these abusive relationships, we as mental health experts should not ignore the need for more services for these men," Randle says in a statement.
The National Violence against Women Survey in 1998 found that 8 percent of men and 25 percent of women report physical or sexual assault by an intimate partner.
