Understanding Help-Seeking Barriers for Men in Abusive Relationships with Kelsi Toews

RESOLVing Violence

In the newest episode of the Resolving Violence podcast, we delve into current Canadian prairie-based research on violence and abuse. We have the privilege of speaking with Dr. Kelsi Toews, a registered doctoral psychologist who specializes in treating child and adolescent anxiety disorders, perinatal mental health, and child developmental disorders. Her passion lies in understanding trauma, particularly the role of gender in experiences of abuse and help-seeking.
In her groundbreaking dissertation research, Dr. Toews explores a topic that has long been under-researched: the help-seeking process of men who have experienced abusive relationships with women. By identifying the barriers that men face when seeking help for intimate partner abuse, Dr. Toews sheds light on an important, yet often overlooked, aspect of this issue. Her motivation to address this topic stems from the significant gap in research and the need to understand the unique nuances of masculinity in relation to abuse.
Men may have different perspectives and considerations when it comes to recognizing and seeking help for abuse compared to women. The stigma from friends and family also plays a significant role, as men fear being ridiculed or seen as weak. Service providers' negative biases towards male victims exacerbate these barriers and contribute to a cycle of silence and perpetuation of abuse.
Learn More About Our Guest:
Kelsi Toews (she/her) is a registered doctoral psychologist, currently practicing here in Saskatoon. She work in both the private and public sectors, and her main areas of focus include treatment of child and adolescent anxiety disorders and OCD, perinatal mental health, as well as assessment for child developmental disorders and mental health concerns. Her research interests center around trauma, specifically the role that gender plays in experiences of and help-seeking for trauma.
To connect with Kelsi Toews, contact her at [e-mail].

To learn more about Resolve SK, head to research-groups.usask.ca/resolve/