Domestic violence remains a disturbing reality in families across various social classes. While gender equality and impartiality may be more attainable in professional families—where men and women have equal opportunities for education and professional careers—gender disparities still persist, even among professionals. Domestic violence continues to plague families across different social strata, yet studies focusing on domestic violence in professional families are rare. Most existing research views women as the primary victims, with limited attention to violence perpetrated by women against men. Domestic violence constitutes a formal legal violation, governed in Indonesia by Law No. 23 of 2004 on the Elimination of Domestic Violence. This law guarantees and protects victims of domestic violence and mandates action against perpetrators.
Understanding domestic violence is crucial because families are responsible for imparting values and norms to individuals. Unfortunately, domestic violence occurs not only in lower social classes but also among the middle and upper classes. Both men and women can be victims. Previous research indicates that experiences of violence can significantly affect an individual’s actions and behaviors in adulthood. This study aims to explore the violence experienced by men in professional families and the reasons behind women’s violent behaviors.
Research Findings
The study reveals that men in professional families experience various forms of violence: verbal/psychological, physical, economic, and sexual. Several sociological factors contribute to women’s violent behaviors towards men, including insecurity, jealousy, and socio-economic status disparities. Men’s reactions to spousal violence range from latent resistance and overt resistance to feelings of alienation.
Men are burdened by a patriarchal system that places them in a superior position, compelling them to assume multiple roles that require exerting power over women. Men are expected to always win and never lose to women. As family leaders, men must not appear weak before women. This notion of masculinity subjects male victims of violence to triple oppression. When men are victims, they face negative stigma and societal judgment for failing to fulfill their perceived role as family dominators. This stigma leads to gossip in various social settings, including workplaces, friendships, and family circles. Consequently, masculinity forces men to remain silent, keep their experiences secret, and react passively to the violence they endure.
Conclusion
The issue of domestic violence against men in professional families warrants deeper examination. It highlights the need for a broader understanding of gender roles and the impact of societal expectations on individuals. Addressing domestic violence requires acknowledging that men, too, can be victims and need support and protection just as women do. Society must challenge traditional notions of masculinity and foster an environment where all victims of domestic violence can seek help without fear of stigma or judgment.