Community Perceptions of Intimate Partner Violence Against Married Men in Urban Tanzania: A Case of Arusha City Council

The study investigated community perceptions of intimate partner violence (IPV) against married men in Arusha City Council, Tanzania. Despite growing recognition of male victimisation in global discourse, IPV against men remains underreported and socially unacknowledged due to cultural norms, rigid masculinity expectations, and institutional neglect. Using a mixed-methods approach involving surveys and key informant interviews, the study revealed that over half of respondents demonstrated no awareness of IPV against men, while only 9% exhibited high perception levels. Qualitative data further highlight widespread stigma, ridicule, and a lack of institutional preparedness to support male survivors. Gender Role Theory provides the analytical lens for understanding these dynamics, revealing how deeply ingrained gender norms hinder recognition and response to male victimisation. The findings underscore the urgent need for gender inclusive policies, public awareness campaigns, and support services that address IPV in all its forms, ensuring protection and dignity for all survivors regardless of gender