AN EXPOLRATION OF MALE SURVIVORS EXPEREINCES OF DOMESTIC ABUSE

Background: Domestic abuse is a significant problem in Scottish society. However, much of the research is based on female survivors of abuse. The exclusion of men throughout policy, research and services is prevalent, however the statistics suggest 11.908 men reported they were abused by a female perpetrator in Scotland. The literature reveals only 10% of men who are abused report it due to the gender-inequalities, perceived masculinity and the stigma attached to abused men. The literature reveals men experience mental health problems, sleep deprivation, substance misuse, social isolation and deprivation from activities, job loss and financial instability. As a result, these men live in fear and the abuse inflicted on them is kept silence. The literature search highlighted the limited research for male survivors and how the abuse can disrupt their occupations. Participation in everyday occupation is a vital part of human development, enabling individuals to participate, provide meaning to their life, sense of identity and promote physical and mental well-being. Therefore, the literature needs to combine the relevant literature into themes and provide a clearer picture of the issue’s men experience. It has been recognised the impact of abuse on men is similar to women, however female survivors receive support and services from women’s aid and various health professionals. In contrast, abused men are provided with a hotline number to receive support and counselling. Therefore, further research is required to identify the issues abuse men face in Scotland and the impact it may have on their occupations. Aim: This research aims to explore abused men’s experience of domestic abuse and the impact it has on their occupations. Methodology: An interpretive phenomenological approach will be adopted to explore abused men’s experiences of domestic abuse and the impact it has on their occupations. This will be achieved by conducting seven face to face semi-structured interviews, carried out in their local GP or another location if it is required. The abused men will have sought help from their GP and may have left the abusive relationship or continue to be with the female perpetrator. Each potential participant will be provided with a participant information sheet to inform them of the study. In addition, the data will be recorded and analysed using a thematic analysis approach with the help from a research assistant. All ethical issues will be considered, and strategies will be identified to ensure confidentiality, consent, reduce distress and the protection of the participant’s personal data. Expected Outcome: It is hoped the research will identify the impact domestic abuse has on male survivors’ occupations and their overall experience. This scholarly activity has the potential to inform health professionals across Scotland, particularly from an occupational therapy focus the occupational performance issues abused men experience, which will in turn identify the need for occupation-based assessment and interventions to promote a meaningful and healthy life