Though
the vast majority of victims of physical, verbal, emotional
and sexual abuse remain women (80%), this is not the only
gender that suffers domestic violence. Men also need
assistance, both emotional and legal, as victims of domestic
violence.
There
may be several reasons for the increase in male victims coming
forward. As the topic of domestic violence becomes more
widely discussed, men as well as women are becoming informed
of the help that is available. Often, when children
are involved in the family, a man may become concerned about
their safety, and the effects the violence at home is having
on them, as well as the damage that he is experiencing.
Another
factor that seems to be contributing to more women acting
out in a violent or abusive manner is the increased use of
drugs among women. Although law enforcement continues to report
a high incidence of alcohol use in domestic violence cases,
methampetamines are increasingly found in those involved in
violent crimes. The medical profession has stated that
crack cocaine, methampetamines and similar drugs are the most
dangerous drugs in our communities. The use of these
drugs is effecting all age groups and cross gender lines.
Men as well as women are encouraged to contact DOVES
to help them to heal and go onto a violence free
life. Please call DOVES hotline at 1-800-841-7601. If you are in immediate danger
call 911.
