Social Cultural Factors Contributing to Child Sexual Abuse in Zanzibar: A Case of Wete District in Pemba.

Omar, Shuwekha A. (2024) Social Cultural Factors Contributing to Child Sexual Abuse in Zanzibar: A Case of Wete District in Pemba. Masters thesis, The Open University of Tanzania.

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Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the social-cultural factors contributing to Child Sexual Abuse (CSA) in Wete District in Pemba. This study was guided by three objectives: to assess the social factors contributing to CSA, examine the cultural factors contributing to CSA, and assess the community knowledge on the prevention of CSA in the Wete District. Social Constructionism Theory guided the study. Interpretivism research philosophy and explorative research design were employed, with a sample size of 78 purposively selected participants. The study adopted a qualitative research approach whereby the interviews and focus group discussions (FGDs) were used as data collection methods. The data were analyzed using content analysis techniques. The study findings have shown that most of the participants know social factors contributing to CSA, while poor parental care, peer influence, poverty, substance abuse, and social gathering were identified as major contributors. Further, the participants have identified silence of culture as a major cultural factor contributing to CSA in the Wete District. Additionally, the study revealed that most of the participants knew clearly about identifying CSA early warning signs. Still, they need to gain more knowledge of reporting points of CSA when it occurred. Moreover, the participants were aware of primary reporting points, including Sheha’s Office and Police Station. They lack explicit knowledge about other reporting points, including the national helplines, counseling services centers, and legal assistance. The study recommended that, the government and other key stakeholders to invest more in addressing the social-cultural factors that affect the welfare and well-being of children. Additionally, regarding the reporting points of CSA, the government and stakeholders should raise awareness in the community about the other reporting points of CSA to improve reporting mechanisms and ultimately protect children from abuse. Key words: Social-cultural factors, Child, Child sexual abuse

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