Abused Men - Are You In The Doghouse Of An Abusive Relationship?
Written by Dr. Jeanne King, Ph.D.
Abusive women put their men in the doghouse when they are misbehaving. And the shame these men feel is no different than that felt by battered women.
It’s a shame that has many dimensions: nna) I let my partner down.nnb) I don’t measure up to my partner’s expectations and/or standards.nnc) I’m in the doghouse by virtue of my own consent.nnd) My partner knows I’ve consented, thereby enabling her control of me.nne) For crying out loud, if my friends knew I was in this doghouse!nnf) My children know of her power to put me here and keep me in here.nng) I feel impotent in my ability to pull myself out of this doghouse.nnh) What if people in the world that I do business with, who trust and respect me, knew of my being ushered into this doghouse?nni) ...And not only ushered here today, but shoved in here regularly!nnj) I want out of this doghouse, but that’s not easy.nnk) I’m beginning to lose respect for myself.nnl) These visits to the doghouse feel like a manipulation to get me to comply with her unfulfilled wishes.nnm) And when I do give into her (or she needs me out of here for something else), she lets me out of the doghouse.nnn) But I know it will only be so long as she is getting what she wants, when she wants it.nno) And when I fail her again, I’ll be right back here in this doghouse.nnp) Would life be better if I just stay here, ignore her and do my own thing?
Article author
About the Author
Further reading
Further Reading
Article
Beyond Addiction: Rebuilding the Mind, Restoring Purpose, and Reclaiming a Life
A transformative, evidence-informed recovery framework integrating cognitive reframing, truth, purpose, resilience, community, and self-determination to help individuals overcome addiction, reconstruct identity, strengthen wellbeing, and transform lived experience into meaningful contribution.
September 27, 2026
Website
Sober Dating
13th Step is a dating app built by and for people in recovery. We connect sober singles seeking meaningful relationships in a judgment-free community where sobriety comes first, always.
September 25, 2026
Article
Narcissistic Entitlement: What You Can Do
The article explains that narcissistic entitlement is the belief that one deserves special treatment. It highlights behaviors like selfish demands, blaming others, and difficulty accepting criticism, while emphasizing the importance of setting boundaries and protecting your own wellbeing.
August 18, 2026
Article
How Telemedicine Suboxone Treatment Can Change Your Life
Opioid addiction has become one of the biggest health challenges in the United States. Many people struggle with dependence on prescription painkillers or drugs like heroin, and finding effective treatment can feel overwhelming. In the past, treatment often required visiting clinics in person, which could be difficult for those with busy schedules, transportation issues, or fears about stigma. These barriers often stop people from getting the help they need. Thankfully, telem
December 9, 2025