In the Philippines, domestic violence has always been perceived as a women’s and children’s issue. However, there is a slowly growing number of cases involving male victims that remain underexamined and often undocumented. This study explores public perceptions of domestic violence against men (DVAM) and whether there is a need for legislation that criminalizes such abuse in the country. Using the qualitative sociological approach, the study surveyed eighty-seven (n=87) participants from various sectors, selected via snowball sampling. Data were gathered through open-ended and semi-structured online questionnaire and analyzed using Braun & Clarke’s (2006) thematic analysis. Findings reveal varied perspectives of DVAM by the participants, which are categorized in three major thematic categories: legal, cultural, and psychological perspectives. Legally, participants stressed the absence of protective measures for male victims, the need for gender-neutral laws, and DVAM as a human rights issue. Culturally, machismo construct, gender stereotypes, and social stigma contribute to the silencing of male victims, influenced by complicated power dynamics in relationships. Psychologically, responses point to emotional and mental abuse for male victims, lack of awareness and underreporting of DVAM, and personal witness accounts of violence. Further, participants also expressed mixed reactions to the proposed law criminalizing domestic violence against men – from strong support to skepticism. Legislative recommendations drawn from public insights are offered, emphasizing the need to recognize and protect all DVAM victims regardless of gender. These findings aim to provide insights to policy discourse, promote inclusivity in law, and challenge culturally embedded gender norms in the Philippines.

Authors:
Eduard Riparip, University of Makati, Philippines

About the Presenter(s)
Eduard M. Riparip is an assistant professor teaching law, English, and Communication subjects at Centro Escolar University and University of Makati.

See this presentation on the full schedule – Friday Schedule

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