SILENCE AND SURVIVAL: EXPLORING MALE CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE AND CARETAKERS’ PERSPECTIVES IN IRINGA DISTRICT, TANZANIA
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.61421/IJSSMER.2025.3603Keywords:
Male Child Sexual Abuse (MCSA), Child CaretakersAbstract
This study explored how and why power hierarchies and patriarchal structures contribute to the underreporting of male child sexual abuse in Iringa District. a total 12 participants were purposively selected for in-depth interview. The study adopted cross-sectional study design which facilitated interviewing caretakers, male child victims and key informants. The study used attachment theory to explain the phenomenon. The study found that authority of perpetrators, male-dominated justice systems, and economic dependence on perpetrators shapes silence in reporting male child sexual abuse. up on this finding the study concludes that it underscores the need for a holistic approach that integrates psychosocial, institutional and economic supports in child protection.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Grolia Fransins
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