Every year, more than 835,000 men are physically assaulted by an intimate partner. Unfortunately, a large portion of male domestic violence victims do not report the abuse. This may be due to a number of factors, including embarrassment, fear or the false notion that only women classify as victims of domestic violence. If you’re a male victim of domestic violence, here’s what you need to know.
How is domestic violence defined under the law?
In Florida, domestic violence is legally defined as a violent act — such as assault, battery, kidnapping or stalking — by one family or household member against another family or household member. Anyone can be a victim of domestic violence, regardless of gender, ethnicity, age or sexual orientation. Furthermore, domestic violence abusers can take any shape or form. Oftentimes, male victims of domestic violence are abused by women with smaller statures and less physical strength.
What signs may indicate domestic violence?
Domestic violence can manifest in a number of ways. You might be a victim of domestic violence if your significant other engages in the following:
- Stops you from going to school or work
- Prevents you from seeing friends or loved ones
- Threatens violence to you or others
- Causes you physical harm, such as hitting, shoving , slapping, choking or kicking
- Forces you to engage in sexual conduct against your will
How does domestic violence affect children?
When children witness domestic violence in the household, it has a negative effect on their psychological health. It can lead to psychiatric disorders, developmental problems, aggression and poor self-esteem.
If you’re the victim of domestic violence, there is hope. An experienced Orlando domestic violence attorney can help stop the abuse by filing for an injunction against domestic violence. Nobody deserves to be the victim of abuse.