Dr Mercy Maclean is a Practitioner Chartered Health Psychologist and the author of the book “Destigmatisation of Mental Health to Combat Public and Self-Stigma”, published in 2024.
As we look into the intricate and often misunderstood realm of domestic violence, Dr Mercy Maclean proposes that it is vital to recognise the unspoken truth: men, too, are victims. For too long, the narrative surrounding domestic violence has been skewed, primarily focusing on women as the only sufferers of abuse. While it's undeniable that women face significant and often unacceptable rates of abuse, it's crucial to acknowledge and address the plight of an often overlooked demographic – men.
Dr. Mercy Maclean aims to shed light on the gender stereotypes that can be harmful to male victims of domestic violence, the prevalence of domestic violence against men, and how we can challenge these harmful stereotypes and support men who may be overlooked. The statistics are staggering. According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, approximately 1 in 7 men (13.8%) have been victims of severe physical violence by an intimate partner in their lifetime. Yet, despite these alarming numbers, the issue of domestic violence against men remains shrouded in silence and stigma. Why is it that men, often perceived as strong and capable, are hesitant to speak out about their experiences of abuse? The answer lies in the rigid gender stereotypes that permeate our society. Our societal narratives, often influenced by media and cultural norms, view men as the aggressors. This notion is not only harmful but also far from reality. Men who are the targets of domestic violence can have their circumstances further complicated by gender stereotypes – not only those related to domestic violence specifically but also social norms regarding acceptable male conduct. Dr Mercy Maclean observes that the harmful stereotype that men should always be strong, tough, and unemotional can result in their victimhood being minimised or dismissed.
Toxic masculinity, male domestic violence and mental health
Consider, for instance, the expectations placed on men in our society. Dr Mercy Maclean suggests that men are often socialised to be stoic, to suppress their emotions, and to never show vulnerability, especially being at the receiving end of domestic violence. The fear of being ridiculed, disbelieved, or stigmatised for experiencing domestic violence can be overwhelming, causing men to suffer in silence. Furthermore, they may be reluctant to report abuse due to a lack of awareness about available help or the fear of not being taken seriously, hence negatively impacting their mental health. This dismissal, as observed by Dr Mercy Maclean, is more than an injustice to the individual victims; it perpetuates the harmful cycle of domestic violence.
By failing to acknowledge and address the experiences of male victims, we are inadvertently contributing to a culture of silence and shame. It is essential to recognise that domestic violence is a gender-neutral issue, one that affects individuals regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation. So, why is it crucial to raise awareness about men experiencing domestic violence and mental health challenges? The answer is simple: it is a matter of humanity. Every individual deserves to be heard, to be believed, and to receive support without fear of judgment or rejection. By challenging the harmful gender stereotypes that perpetuate domestic violence, we can create a society that is more inclusive, more empathetic, and more supportive of all victims of abuse. Dr Mercy Maclean emphasises that as we navigate the complex landscape of domestic violence experienced by men, it is essential to ask ourselves some difficult questions.
What are the cultural and societal norms that contribute to the silence surrounding male victims of domestic violence?
How can we work to redefine societal expectations about toxic masculinity and create a culture that is more supportive of men who are victims of abuse?
What role can we, as individuals and as a society, play in challenging these harmful stereotypes and providing support to those men who need it most?
These are the questions that we as a society must seek to address. Dr Mercy Maclean recommends that through a critical examination of the gender stereotypes that perpetuate domestic violence, a discussion of the prevalence of domestic violence against men, and an exploration of how we can work to challenge these stereotypes and support male victims, we can begin to create a society that is more just, more compassionate, and more supportive of all individuals affected by domestic violence.
Breaking the silence: The unseen struggles of male victims of domestic violence
Dr Mercy Maclean propositions that the complexities of domestic violence, gender stereotypes, cultural norms, and societal expectations all contribute to the silence surrounding male victims of abuse. In light of this proposal, it is important to examine the mental health challenges that men may face as a result of domestic violence, including depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The bravery to discuss ways in which we can work to challenge these harmful stereotypes, provide support to male victims, and create a society that is more inclusive and more supportive of all individuals affected by domestic violence. This journey is not an easy one, but it is a necessary one. By shedding light on the often-overlooked issue of domestic violence against men, Dr Mercy Maclean says we can begin to create a society that is more just, more compassionate, and more supportive of all individuals affected by abuse. So, let us embark on this journey together, with an open heart and an open mind, and work towards creating a world that is free from the shackles of harmful gender stereotypes and societal expectations.
Dr Mercy Maclean, Practitioner Chartered Health Psychologist
Dr Mercy Maclean is a Practitioner Chartered Health Psychologist registered with The Health and Care Professional Council (HCPC), an Associate Fellow of The British Psychological Society (AFBPsS), and a full member of the Division of Health Psychology at The British Psychological Society (BPS). She specialises in behaviour change interventions and mental wellbeing approaches to reduce health inequalities among healthcare professionals and health service users. Her personal investment in mental wellbeing approaches is deeply rooted in her family history. She understands the impact of mental illness and the importance of compassion, empathy, and understanding for those who are struggling.
Dr Mercy Maclean is the author of the highly anticipated book – “Destigmatisation of Mental Health to Combat Public and Self-Stigma” – click here.
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