Male victims

• 20% of domestic violence victims are men and 1 in 6 men will be victims at some point in their lives.

Less physical

Male abuse towards women has been described as "open warfare" and female abuse towards men as "emotional terrorism". That’s to say the abuse that male victims suffer is usually - but not always - less physical, but more manipulative and emotionally undermining.

Even though there are some differences in the way that domestic abuse towards men is displayed there are many similarities with domestic abuse towards women. If you think you maybe a victim, have a look at our Am I a victim? pages

What can I do?

• Male victims have exactly the same legal rights as females in relation to housing, civil and criminal law.
• The first hurdle to get over, however, is the difficulty in accepting you are a victim and then asking for help.
• You can call the Survivors National Helpline for advice and support - sometimes speaking to someone you don’t know can help.