A Qualitative Exploration of Lived Experiences in Domestically Abusive Relationships

My name is Chenae, and I am currently a Level 6 Counselling student at the University of East London. I am writing to share the importance and rationale behind my research project titled 鈥淎 Qualitative Exploration of Lived Experiences in Domestically Abusive Relationships,鈥� focusing specifically on male victims of domestic violence and their reluctance to report their abuse.

Male victimisation in domestic violence is severely under-reported and often overlooked. Domestic violence is typically viewed as a female-centric issue, with resources and research largely focusing on women. While this focus is important, there is an urgent need to address the experiences of male victims, who frequently face unique challenges when acknowledging and reporting their abuse. Societal norms surrounding masculinity perpetuate the idea that men should be strong, resilient, and capable of handling adversity without seeking help. These norms often leave men to suffer in silence, facing ridicule or dismissal if they attempt to speak about their experiences. This further isolates them and deepens feelings of shame and emasculation, which discourages them from seeking the support they need.

This research is highly relevant to the field of counselling. As mental health professionals, it is essential to understand the complexities of domestic violence and adapt support services to meet the needs of all survivors. By recognising the unique challenges faced by men in abusive relationships, we can develop more compassionate, non-judgmental, and effective strategies to support them. This study aims to contribute to the development of resources and protocols that empower male survivors to speak out and seek help, ultimately advocating for their mental health and well-being. I aim to explore the factors contributing to this reluctance, including societal expectations, psychological barriers, emotional difficulties

For this research, I will interview 4-5 male participants aged 18 and over who have experienced domestic violence. Participants will be invited to engage in a 45鈥�60-minute interview, responding to up to nine questions related to their experiences. They will first receive an information sheet detailing the purpose and procedures of the study, followed by an interview schedule, along with a consent form to confirm their participation and lastly, a debrief will also be sent to participants once the interviews commence. Interviews will take place on MS Teams via audio to give participants their privacy and will be recorded for analysis. The interview will cover participants鈥� background, their subjective experiences, and how the abuse has affected their mental health.

The research will explore their experiences and how those experiences affected their sense of self, their perceptions of masculinity, and their ability to seek help. I believe this study will provide valuable insights into the barriers preventing men from reporting abuse and seeking support, ultimately helping to develop more inclusive and supportive interventions.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to sharing my findings and contributing to the ongoing conversation around this important issue.

If you would like more information or to participate, please contact: Chenbeaumont10@hotmail.com

Sincerely,

Chenae
Level 6 Counselling Student
University of East London