Recently social media was seen struggling to find out the potential perpetrators and the victims regarding the gang rape tragedy of a female doctor at R G Kar Medical College and Hospital. While social media feeds and comment sections were seen getting bombarded with theories on anti and pro-rape cultures we understood that learning and unlearning the gender-based violence discourses are yet to be achieved by the people of this land. 

The discourse on gender-based violence has traditionally focused on women as victims and men as perpetrators. However, this dichotomy oversimplifies the complex realities faced by both genders. The stories of males as both perpetrators and victims of gender-based violence are sometimes obscured by existing preconceptions and cultural expectations in the complex conversation around this issue "Men's Narratives on Violence" provides a crucial, yet often overlooked perspective in gender studies. This exploration challenges entrenched stereotypes and offers a nuanced understanding of how violence impacts men and women differently.

Challenging Conventional Assumptions

This perspective undermines the oversimplified view that violence against men is less prevalent or significant. Common assumptions suggest that men are primarily exposed to violence in public spaces, while women suffer violence within intimate relationships. However, existing literature reveals a more intricate picture. Research indicates that “mindless” or “gratuitous” violence often involves males as both victims and perpetrators (Lien, 2019).

Global and Local Perspectives

Globally, statistics show that violence against women is alarmingly widespread. According to global data, approximately 35 percent of women have experienced physical or sexual violence in their lifetime. In Bangladesh, a joint study by ActionAid Bangladesh and the Jatiyo Nari Nirjaton Protirodh Forum highlights that about 66 percent of women face domestic violence (Haider, 2019). This violence includes various forms such as battering, rape, and sex trafficking, frequently perpetrated by acquaintances or family members; mostly by males. 

Conversely, the nature of violence experienced by men often differs. Men may face physical violence, sexual violence, stalking, psychological aggression, and control over reproductive or sexual health by intimate partners (National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, Division of Violence Prevention, 2020). Despite the significant rates of violence against men, societal norms and patriarchal structures often lead to underreporting and marginalization of their experiences.

The Overlooked Issue of Male Victimization

One startling revelation is that men also suffer from domestic abuse, with estimates suggesting that one-third of domestic abuse victims are male. In 2020, the Office for National Statistics reported 1.6 million women and 757,000 men experiencing abuse (Broberg, 2022). Despite this, men often face skepticism and hostility when reporting abuse, which contributes to their silence and lack of support.

An example of violence within the male population is highlighted by Wahid (2023), who discusses how socioeconomic factors contribute to violence among men. He describes incidents where men display aggression towards rickshaw pullers over trivial matters, reflecting a deeper issue of socio-economic superiority and its impact on male behavior.

Theoretical Perspectives on Male Violence

Understanding men's involvement in intimate partner violence (IPV) can be approached through various theoretical lenses; Socio-political theories argue that domestic violence is a mechanism to uphold patriarchal social structures (Chandra, 2023).On the other hand psycho-analytical theories explore the psychological factors influencing violent behavior among men. Another popular theory, social-learning theory suggests that men may learn violent behavior through exposure to aggressive role models.Studies also reveal how men often justify their violent actions. Research on male perpetrators shows tendencies to blame victims, minimize their actions, claim lack of control, and express remorse (Stokoe, 2006). This 'category-based denial' is a cultural practice where men deny their violent behavior by asserting their good character and social status (Stokoe, 2010). Further analysis by Anderson and Umberson (2014) shows how men who abuse their partners often view their actions as rational and effective, while dismissing women's violence as insignificant. Alarmingly, cultural endorsement of patriarchy is evident, with 46.7% of ever-married women agreeing that a husband may justify beating his wife (Pande, 2017).

The Role of Media

The media also plays a crucial role in shaping men's narratives about violence. The portrayal of violence in movies, television shows, and video games often reinforces the idea that violence is an acceptable way to resolve conflicts or assert dominance. This can desensitize individuals to the real-life consequences of violence and contribute to a culture that tolerates or even celebrates aggressive behavior

Conclusion

The literature on men's narratives of violence reveals a complex and multifaceted issue. A range of personal, societal, and cultural factors influences men's experiences with violence. Understanding these narratives is crucial for addressing gender-based violence comprehensively and dismantling harmful stereotypes and practices. This broader perspective helps highlight the need for inclusive strategies in both prevention and support for victims of violence, regardless of gender.