The common misconception that men are not identified as victims in society conceals the actual fact that Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) transcends beyond gender and sexuality. Any behavior by an individual that causes harm or danger to their significant other within an intimate relationship is referred to as Intimate Partner Violence (IPV). The minimal availability of literature or research on IPV within same sex male relationships is the reason why this problem is considered less serious in comparison to IPV experiences among heterosexual and LBTQ women. The cultural and societal discussions that surround masculinity hamper the ability of victims that face IPV in same sex male relationships to identify themselves in order to avoid stigma in the community and society as well. IPV takes on different forms. It can be physical, sexual, emotional, psychological and also through financial control by the dominant partner who is considered superior and holds the most power in the relationship.

Several barriers hinder victims in gay relationships access to assistance in regards to IPV. First of all, the legal definition of domestic violence currently excludes same sex/ gay men relationships. It is arguable that there is incredibly low confidence in law enforcement officers and courts of law which demotivates those involved in violent gay relationships from reporting such cases to the authorities. Read more via Kuchu Times