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The Helpseeking Experiences of Men Who Sustain Intimate Partner Violence: An Overlooked Population and Implications for Practice

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Abstract

For over 30 years, research has shown that men can and do sustain intimate partner violence (IPV) from their female partners. This is the first large-scale, nationally-based, quantitative study to systematically detail the helpseeking experiences of men who have sustained IPV from their female partners. The sample is composed of 302 men who were recruited from resources specializing in men’s issues. Results indicate that men who seek help for IPV victimization have the most positive experiences in seeking help from family/friends, and mental health and medical providers. They have the least positive experiences with members of the DV service system. Cumulative positive helpseeking experiences were associated with lower levels of abusing alcohol; cumulative negative experiences were associated with higher rates of exceeding a clinical cut-off for post-traumatic stress disorder. Results are discussed in terms of implications for the social service sector and for future research.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. School of Social Work, Bridgewater State University, 95 Burrill Ave, Bridgewater, MA, 02325, USA

    Emily M. Douglas

  2. Clark University, Worcester, MA, USA

    Denise A. Hines

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  1. Emily M. Douglas
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  2. Denise A. Hines
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Correspondence to Emily M. Douglas.

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Author Note

The project described was supported by Grant Number 5R21MH074590 from the National Institute of Mental Health. Its contents are solely the responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official views of the NIMH. Special thanks goes to Dr. Murray A. Straus for his continued guidance, support, and consultation on this project.

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Douglas, E.M., Hines, D.A. The Helpseeking Experiences of Men Who Sustain Intimate Partner Violence: An Overlooked Population and Implications for Practice. J Fam Viol 26, 473–485 (2011). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10896-011-9382-4

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