Domestic Violence Against Men: Evidence from Ubungo Municipality, Tanzania

Domestic violence against men remains an under-recognised social problem, partly because cultural beliefs about masculinity influence how men interpret victimisation and whether they disclose abuse. This article examines cultural beliefs that discourage men from reporting domestic violence in Ubungo Municipality, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Guided by Hegemonic Masculinity Theory, Social Norms Theory, and Patriarchy and Gender Relations Theory, the study adopted a qualitative approach and case study design. Data were collected through 30 individual interviews and three focus group discussions involving nine participants each. Thematic analysis was used to examine participants’ experiences and perceptions. The findings identified five interconnected cultural barriers: expectations of male strength and self-reliance, emotional control, household authority, shame and embarrassment, and the expectation that family problems should be resolved privately. These beliefs can make disclosure appear inconsistent with socially accepted masculine identities and expose men to anticipated ridicule, loss of respect, and reputational concerns. The article argues that culturally sensitive interventions should challenge restrictive masculine expectations while recognising men’s experiences of abuse and promoting safe, confidential, and accessible reporting mechanisms.