Abstract
The study examines attributions for the culture of silence among ever-married male victims of domestic violence in Kenya. This study targets ever-married men who had attained post-secondary education and working in public service. The study adopted a case study design that allows a combination of descriptive and explanatory strategies. The public institution was purposively selected from where 120 respondents were randomly selected from an accessible population of 220. Data were gathered using semi-structured questionnaires and focused group discussions. Quantitative data were analyzed descriptively, while content analysis was used to generate themes. The results are consistent with previous studies that show that physical, psychological, sexual, verbal, and economic violence are prevalent. Further, regardless of the severity of the violence, most males prefer not to report it. The main attributions for the culture of silence were shame, humiliation, stigma, and isolation. As a result, male victims suffer concomitant psychosocial problems. Given the rising number of domestic violence victims, there is a need to provide psychosocial support by creating safe spaces for male victims to mitigate irreparable psychological damages and stabilize the families. Key words: Domestic violence, male victims, culture of silence.
Highlights
Domestic violence is defined as a pattern of abusive behaviors by one or both partners in an intimate relationship (Drijber et al, 2012)
This study focuses on ever-married men victims of domestic violence who are rarely, if ever, been systematically studied; understanding and awareness of the effects of domestic abuse against the victims are limited
The interview schedule Section A focused on the demographic data of the respondents, Section B common forms of domestic violence in marriages as well as which specific ones the respondents had ever experienced, Section C examined how the respondents experience them, while Section D focused on attributions for the culture of silence
Summary
Domestic violence is defined as a pattern of abusive behaviors by one or both partners in an intimate relationship (Drijber et al, 2012). The American Psychological Association (APA, 2001) defines domestic violence as ongoing patterns of behavior, attitudes, and beliefs in which a partner in an intimate relationship attempts to maintain power and control over the other through psychological, physical, and or sexual coercion. Domestic violence is a global problem that cuts across culture, class, ethnicity, and age, and it is one of the most severe human rights problems (WHO, 2002). Pizzey (1975) argued that domestic violence is considered a private matter that can be resolved within the home. Domestic violence is of public concern with legal implications. Domestic violence victims can legally access justice if the abuse is reported.
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