Male Victims

Many men also experience domestic violence or sexual assault. This website was created with women in mind because a very large percentage of victims of domestic violence and sexual assault are women. However, we understand that for a male victim, those statistics are irrelevant and the need for assistance and support is just as important.

Certain gender stereotypes and social factors can make it difficult for male victims of abuse to come forward. From a young age, men are socialized to avoid appearing “weak,” “afraid,” and “hurt.” The result is that men may find it difficult to express emotions or ask for help. This often acts as a barrier to male victims reporting abuse.

If you are a male victim of domestic violence or sexual assault, you should know that you are not alone. According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, 1 in 4 men will experience some form of physical violence by an intimate partner within their lifetime. It is okay to ask for help. No one should have to be afraid or feel unsafe in his or her relationship.

All of the legal information on this website applies equally to men as to women. We respond to requests for information and support from male victims just as we do for female victims on our Email Hotline. Many local programs and state coalitions can also help male victims.

Also, there are a few national organizations that were established to help men - see our National Organizations for Male Victims page.