Although some people have a hard time believing that men can be the victims of domestic violence, the family law attorneys at the Law Office of Hasson D. Barnes understand that what happens behind closed doors in someone’s home can be very surprising. It is not unreasonable to believe domestic violence (DV) against men occurs, especially when one considers the standard signs that suggest a man may be experiencing this type of psychological, emotional, or physical abuse. If you find yourself in this situation you need help. To be clear, the bottom line in any DV situation is control and coercion—your situation may be more serious than you imagined.

Symptoms Indicating Possible Abuse 

The classic symptoms are the same: trauma can cause changes in behavior and/or demeanor, whether those changes manifest themselves in the workplace, in social settings, or in general patterns of behavior. In some instances, a man’s physical appearance and attire may change, as well.

Psychological Abuse 

Are you afraid of your partner? It may be because you are suffering from psychological abuse. Are you experiencing depression, anxiety, withdrawal, and even suicidal thoughts? Have you turned to drugs or alcohol for relief? If so, it could be the result of:

• Being humiliated, criticized, and belittled in front of others;
• Having to constantly report in to your partner about your whereabouts, conversations, plans, and so forth;
• Having your children turned against you by your partner;
• Being falsely accused of abuse;
• Being accused of being crazy or off-balance;
• Being isolated from family and friends;
• Having to agree whatever your partner wants;
• Dealing with constant, extreme possessiveness and jealousy;
• Being threatened when you contemplate leaving.

Physical Abuse 

Has escalating physical abuse occurred because you are physically unable or unwilling to protect yourself from a partner’s angry outbursts? Do you find yourself:

• Blaming frequent cuts and bruises on your own clumsiness and so-called accidents:
• Skipping work or social gatherings often, sometimes with no explanation;
• Wearing clothes with the intent of covering up scars and bruises, such as long sleeves despite warm temperatures.

Why Signs are Often Overlooked 

Women who show up for an annual exam with their doctor would be questioned about bruises or cuts.  But men’s wounds often go unchecked, partly because DV is thought of as a gendered event, and men are simply not given the concern and empathy they need when they show signs of being victimized. This occurs whether it’s your doctor, your best friend, or your family. Missed opportunities to identify and intervene in situations where men are being harmed can leave them feeling more humiliated and isolated than ever. And we know that DV tends to escalate over time, putting them at greater risk of serious—even fatal outcomes.

Do You Suspect DV is Impacting a Man You Know? 

Anyone who is experiencing intimate partner violence deserves help—regardless of gender. If you are in danger, call the police. If you need a restraining order and/or a divorce, call us at the Law Office of Hasson D. Barnes, where our dedicated, compassionate Baltimore family law attorneys are here to help. Together, let’s end the suffering. Schedule a confidential consultation in our Baltimore office today.