Various social and cultural factors can influence how society responds to violence against men versus women. These emotions are not consistent across communities and can differ based on the specific context and prevailing societal standards. It is critical to recognize that various cultures may have different views and responses toward male victims of violence than they do toward female victims. These differences are the result of historical, societal, and gender influences that alter people's views and reactions to such situations.
Here are some reasons that may contribute to this differential reaction:
1) G 1) Gender stereotypes:
Many people, including academics and government officials, reject unilateral men's abuse due to societal stereotypes states Jovanoski and Sharlamanov (2016). Men are generally associated with physical strength in cultural stereotypes, reducing their vulnerability to violence. Challenge these assumptions and acknowledge that violence impacts everyone, regardless of gender or physical characteristics.
2) Historical context:
Historically, males in positions of power and domination have influenced society's perception and response to violence directed against them. There is a common misconception that males should handle violence on their own without seeking assistance or support.
3) Media Representation:
Media portrayals of violence and victimization may shape societal perceptions of male victims when they predominantly highlight female victimization and depict men as perpetrators.
According to Clark (2016), when people hear the term domestic violence, they instantly think that women are victims and men are perpetrators. Men and women experience violence, with 1 in 4 men experiencing physical, 7 in severe, 18 in stalking, and 59 in rape. Women perpetuate violence against men too.
~References~
- Clark, C. A. (2016, December 9). Domestic violence: Men as the victims. Engaged Sociology. https://engagedsociology.wordpress.com/2016/12/07/chelseaannclark/
- Jovanoski, A., & Sharlamanov, K. (2021, March). Male as a victims: Domestic violence from a different perspective. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/352523407_Male_as_a_Victims_Domestic_Violence_from_a_Different_Perspective
(Nanako McIntosh)
The response to violence against men versus women is heavily influenced by social and cultural factors, leading to differential reactions in various communities. Gender stereotypes play a significant role, as societal assumptions of men being physically strong can downplay their vulnerability to violence, perpetuating the neglect of male victims. The historical context further reinforces this notion, with male dominance shaping the perception that men should handle violence on their own without seeking support. Additionally, media representation often focuses on female victimisation, leading to an imbalance in how male victims are perceived. To address this issue, it is crucial to challenge stereotypes, acknowledge male victimisation, and foster a more inclusive understanding of violence, regardless of gender.
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