Domestic abuse is any pattern of controlling, coercive, threatening, degrading, or violent behaviour used to gain or maintain power over another person. It can happen in any relationship, regardless of age, gender, culture, or background. Abuse is never the fault of the person experiencing it, and no one deserves to live in fear.

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Do men experience domestic abuse?

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Yes, but many men may not recognise it or feel comfortable speaking about it. Abuse doesn’t always look the way people expect, and it can happen in many different forms, from constant criticism and control, to isolation, financial restrictions, or physical harm.

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Domestic abuse can affect men of any age, background, or situation. If this feels familiar, please know you are not alone. Reaching out for support is not a sign of weakness, it’s a step toward safety and regaining control.

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Different Types of Domestic Abuse

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Emotional abuse – undermining someone’s confidence or self-worth through constant criticism, manipulation, humiliation, or controlling behaviour.

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Psychological abuse – using intimidation, threats, isolation, or gaslighting to cause fear or confusion.

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Physical abuse – causing harm through actions such as hitting, pushing, choking, or other forms of physical violence.

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Sexual abuse – forcing or pressuring someone into sexual activity without consent, or controlling them through sexual means.

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Financial abuse – controlling access to money, restricting independence, or using finances to create dependence.

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Gaslighting – making someone question their own thoughts, feelings, or memories, leading them to doubt themselves and their sense of reality.

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Coercive and controlling behaviour – patterns of behaviour that strip away freedom and independence, such as monitoring movements, limiting contact with friends or family, or controlling daily activities.

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Digital/Online abuse – using technology to harass, stalk, monitor, or intimidate, such as tracking devices, messages, or online threats.