Synopses & Reviews
When most people think of domestic violence, images of battered women or abused children come to mind. But there is another side to this issue that is not as familiar—abused men. This unique book is the first to comprehensively examine this important but neglected social issue. Already praised by a diverse spectrum of readers—from Dear Abby's Abigail Van Buren, to the nation's leading domestic violence researcher, to those in law enforcement and counseling—this work is sure to spark controversy and discussion. It offers gripping, emotional stories, self-help for victims, and provocative insight into public issues, and provides a basic reference source for professionals. ^IAbused Men^R presents practical solutions for reducing domestic violence, whether its victims are male or female.
Cook begins by examining the common misconceptions about this social issue and offers a wealth of what will be new information for most readers. While statistics show that 1.8 million American women are severely assaulted by their mates each year, few know that the same source indicates that 2 million men are also assaulted at home. After laying the groundwork for a serious reconsideration of how society views domestic violence, Cook allows a number of abused men to tell their stories. He then puts these experiences in the context of what therapists and others who have worked with such men know about domestic violence and how the male victim is similar to, yet different from, his female counterpart. After examining the reasons why so little is known about male abuse and the difficulties researchers encounter, Cook shows how the abused man, his friends and family, and the abusive or abused woman can come to grips with domestic violence. Drawing from a variety of sources, the final chapter brings these diverse elements together and proposes practical solutions for reducing domestic violence, whether its victims are male or female.
Review
Thought provoking research which will stimulate further inquiry into human behavior long neglected.Ronald R. Still, M.S. Chief of Police (Retired) Portland, Oregon
Review
Perhaps with this book, Philip Cook can accomplish what academics have for the past 25 years failed to do--to cut through the political rhetoric and finally present the case of abused men as a real social problem. Cook goes beyond the issue of battered males as he sheds incredible insight into the systemic problem of family violence. Perhaps now, couples experiencing violence in their relationships can be helped. His case material sadly brings to life the statistics researchers generate.Reena Sommer, Ph.D. Assistant Professor, University of Manitoba Family Counselor
Review
[This book] reads like 1,000 Dear Abby letters...fascinating...but it explains the many aspects of domestic violence. It has a wealth of material that could be helpful to professionals who deal with domestic violence."Dear Abby" Abigail Van Buren
Review
This just might be the volume to get the message across finally that domestic violence is a human problem, not just a gender problem.R.L. McNeely, Ph.D., J.D. Attorney Professor of Social Welfare, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
Review
Unique. The case materials presented are gripping, and need to be part of the historical and social record. It is a book likely to be helpful to many men, and if action is taken on the agenda outlined in the final chapter, to our country as a whole.Murray A. Straus, Ph.D Co-Director Family Research Laboratory University of New Hampshire
Review
Very thought-provoking and well researched. [This book] should aid in educating medical professionals regarding this potential diagnosis as well as help shape our legal approach.Kenneth H. Coleman, M.D., J.D. Attorney at Law
Review
I find Abused Men most appealing because of the rigorous research upon which the findings are based. There is nothing that is not fully substantiated by data...I appreciate the balance achieved in addressing a topic, usually ignored, in an era of accusations and hysteria that often detracts from the actual aggression and violence that affects domestic relations. This book is a real contribution that will help in the education of all professionals in the field of sociology and mental health.Stanley G. Sturges, M.D. Medical Director CareMark Behavioral Health Services
Synopsis
When most people think of domestic violence, images of battered women or abused children come to mind. But there is another side to this issue that is not as familiar--abused men. This unique book is the first to comprehensively examine this important but neglected social issue. Already praised by a diverse spectrum of readers--from "Dear Abby's" Abigail Van Buren, to the nation's leading domestic violence researcher, to those in law enforcement and counseling--this work is sure to spark controversy and discussion. It offers gripping, emotional stories, self-help for victims, and provocative insight into public issues, and provides a basic reference source for professionals. Abused Men presents practical solutions for reducing domestic violence, whether its victims are male or female.
Synopsis
This unique work offers gripping, emotional stories, self-help for victims, provocative insight into public issues, and provides a basic reference source for professionals.
Description
Includes bibliographical references (p. [171]-[183]) and index.
About the Author
PHILIP W. COOK is a former broadcast journalist who won awards for his reporting from the Associated Press and The Professional Journalism Society, and is a scholarship recipient of the Radio Television News Directors Association.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Is It Real?: The Evidence for a Significant Social Problem
Telling Their Stories: Men Speak Out
The Domestic Violence Trap: How to Get Help and Find Freedom from Abuse
Resistance and Acceptance: The Challenge to Understanding
Exploring New Approaches to Reduce Domestic Violence
Notes
Selected Bibliography
Selected Resources
Index