85% of domestic violence victims are women. Here in Southeast Texas, the percentage is even greater. At Family Services, we help victims of domestic violence (men and women) by providing them and their children shelter from their abuser.
We help batterers (men and women) break the cycle of violence.
But there are things every man can do to help prevent violence against women.
- Approach gender violence as a MEN’S issue. Men are more likely to be the perpetrator of domestic violence, but they can also be empowered bystanders who can confront abusive peers.
- If a brother, friend, classmate, or teammate is abusing his female partner — or is disrespectful or abusive to women in general — don’t ignore the behavior. Talk to your friend if you feel comfortable doing so. If not, seek help. A counselor, parent, teacher or friend can help. DON’T REMAIN SILENT.
- Be introspective. Do your own attitudes and actions inadvertently perpetuate sexism and violence? If so, work on changing them.
- If you suspect that a woman close to you is being abused or has been sexually assaulted, gently ask if you can help.
- If you are the abuser (emotional, pychological, physical, sexual), seek help immediately.
- Support groups and organizations that work to end all forms of gender violence. Attend public events, donate or organize a fundraiser.
- Read about the root causes of gender inequality. Educate yourself and others about how larger social forces affect the conflicts between individuals of the opposite sex.
- Don’t fund sexism. Refuse to purchase any magazine, book, movie, or music that portrays women in a sexually degrading or abusive manner.
- Mentor and teach young boys about how to be men in ways that don’t involve degrading or abusing women. Lead by example.
If you or someone you love is having difficulty managing their anger, please call us at (409)833-2668. Family Services of Southeast Texas has trained professional counselors on-site that specialize in anger management for men and women ages 12 and up. We offer group sessions in Anger Management and also a Batterers Intervention and Prevention Program (BIPP).
Our counseling services are provided on a sliding fee scale based on family income. Private Insurance, Medicare and Medicaid are accepted.
If you or someone you love is in an abusive relationship, please call our 24-hour Domestic Violence Crisis Intervention Hotline at 409-832-7575 or 1-800-621-8882.
Additional Sources:
MVP Strategies, Jackson Katz – 10 things men can do to prevent gender violence.
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