Silence and Survival: Exploring Male Child Sexual Abuse and Caretakers’ Perspectives in Iringa District, Tanzania

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.