The Influence of Cultural Beliefs on Help-Seeking Behavior among Female Civil Servants Experiencing Sexual Violence in Kibaha District Council, Coast Region, Tanzania

This study examined the Cultural determinants of help-seeking behavior among female civil servants facing sexual violence in Kibaha District Council, Tanzania. Specifically, it examined the influence of cultural beliefs, social stigma and fear of social consequences, and workplace power relations on women’s decisions to seek help. The study employed a mixed methods approach, drawing on quantitative and qualitative data to capture both general patterns and participants’ experiences. Quantitative data were obtained from 80 female civil servants, while qualitative information was gathered through in-depth interviews and key informant interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative data were analyzed thematically. The findings revealed that cultural factors influenced help-seeking behavior. Concerning cultural beliefs, 51.3% of respondents agreed or strongly agreed that cultural beliefs discouraged reporting, 75.0% identified family honor as a barrier, and 58.8% acknowledged the influence of traditional gender expectations. However, 98.8% rejected the view that women should remain silent after experiencing sexual violence, suggesting changing attitudes towards disclosure. The qualitative findings reinforced these patterns by highlighting concerns about judgement, family reputation, retaliation, confidentiality and professional security. The study concludes that women’s help-seeking decisions are shaped by cultural and workplace realities. It recommends strengthening confidential reporting mechanisms, protection against retaliation, survivor-centered support services, effective implementation of workplace policies, and continued efforts to challenge stigma and cultural attitudes that discourage disclosure.