Dear all, but most of all, men I’m an undergraduate student, studying a BA (Hons) in Criminology & Sociology, and I’m due to write a report on domestic violence, talking about the experiences of men as the victim and women (and other men) as the perpetrator.

I feel that there’s not enough support for us lads when it comes to domestic violence or generally speaking mental health issues, or (and) our emotions.

Because of things such as machismo into the police establishment; men being depicted as the big bad wolf 🐺 and not being believed; stigma towards coming forwards and admitting that we too hurt and have been hurt; the fear of not being believed or being ridiculed by our fellow men or other men in positions of authority; such as the police; CJS, the court; etc

But also societal things, toxic masculinity; the patriarchy; the man box; societal expectations of femininity and masculinity; etc.

I’d like, if you are comfortable and willing to DM me privately and share; should you wish to, your own experiences with dealing with the aftermath of being a victim of domestic violence and what help was there in place for you, and how was your journey towards recovery. As I’d like to make a really informed academic piece on the topic; as a man myself and a victim of domestic violence for the past years, I care deeply about this issue and the feelings of my fellow men. Men cry to, and it breaks my heart.

This is absolutely voluntary, you don’t have to.