More Men Seek Help From Mensline (Press, 18 August 1988)

A survey by Mensline has revealed a growing trend among Christchurch men seeking assistance for issues related to violence and anger. Since its inception in March 1987, the telephone counselling service has received approximately 150 calls, with about one-third of the callers expressing concern over their violent and angry feelings towards women. Another significant portion of calls related to the breakdown of personal relationships, with anger often intertwined with these concerns. Notably, some men identified themselves as perpetrators of incest, indicating awareness of societal condemnation, which can hinder their willingness to seek help. Additionally, some callers disclosed that they had been abused as boys, though the specifics regarding the nature of the abuse were unclear. On average, Mensline receives around two calls each night. Callers also raised issues concerning child custody following separations, feelings of isolation, and difficulties related to homosexuality. For those needing to address their anger, the service primarily referred men to the Selwyn Centre, which offers anger management programs under the auspices of the Canterbury Hospital Board. Mr. Alec Saunders, a spokesman for Mensline, emphasised that the service's mission is to encourage men to recognise and change their behaviours if they choose to do so. The organisation is also dedicated to supporting men who have experienced abuse from other men, as well as those whose female partners have been victims of incest. Regular support group meetings are held for men to discuss challenges they face regarding relationships and parenting. Mr. Saunders acknowledged that while increasing awareness of child abuse, especially incest, might alarm some fathers who feel branded as abusers, such sentiments are misplaced. He reiterated that the focus remains on protecting children and enabling men to alter their destructive behaviours. He contended that greater societal dialogue surrounding child abuse and incest will illuminate the extent of the problem and highlight the necessity for change and support for both victims and perpetrators.

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