Guys can be victims of dating violence. Men are more likely to be sexually abusive or to physically injure their female dating partners, but guys are just as vulnerable to many of the non-physical types of dating abuse. Guys are vulnerable to being financially taken advantage of. They can be emotionally and verbally abused, and a jealous girlfriend can keep them away from friends or isolate them socially. When men are verbally or emotionally abused, it becomes harder to deal with because they are much less likely to recognize that what is happening to them is abuse, and they are usually too proud to seek help.

Same-sex relationships can also be violent. Both men and women can experience dating violence at the hands of a same-sex partner. Since gay relationships are often kept secret, the violence is even more hidden. Teens in same-sex relationships often feel more isolated, have fewer people to turn to for help, and are subject to control by partners who threaten to "out" their orientation.

Men must be part of the solution. There is growing recognition of the fact that men have an important role to play when it comes to ending violence in relationships. Being strong and masculine should not be about keeping "your" girl in check or controlling your partner. Both partners in a relationship deserve respect, and being a man is about standing up for what is right. Use the links below for more information about how men can work together to stop relationship violence:
The White Ribbon Campaign
The Men's Nonviolence Project