Filipino men on domestic violence: Their familial relationships, experiences, values and needs

Abstract

This study examined men's views on and experiences with domestic violence, their values and needs through FGD and in-depth interviews with married men from various sectors in rural and urban areas in Iloilo City. Findings show that men are the usual perpetrators, while wives and children, the usual victims of domestic violence. Men blamed their violent acts on their wives' nagging and untoward behaviors. For many of them, "it is normal for husbands to hurt their wives sometimes" and they expect wives to understand and be patient with them. Men kick, beat or slap their wives/partners and also verbally abuse them especially when the women nag, gamble or become unfaithful. The men acknowledged however, that violence is not necessary and can/must be avoided. Many of them also feel bad when they hurt their wives/children. They admitted that they want to change, but need help to do so.