Traditional leaders’ explanatory models of anxiety: The role of socio-demographic variables in a rural lesotho context

Reamohetsoe Khali, Ntsoaki Florence Tadi^*
Psychology, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
* Corresponding Author: Ntsoaki Florence Tadi. Email: email

Journal of Psychology in Africa https://doi.org/10.32604/jpa.2026.081757

Received 08 March 2026; Accepted 18 May 2026; Published online 10 September 2026

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Abstract

Culturally grounded understandings of mental health are critical for developing effective and contextually responsive interventions, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. This study explored traditional leaders’ explanatory models of anxiety and examined how socio-demographic variables shape these perspectives in a rural African context. Using a qualitative design, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 14 traditional leaders from the Mokhotlong District, Lesotho. Interviews explored local labels, perceived causes, signs, help-seeking behaviours, and treatment approaches related to anxiety. Data were analysed thematically, with attention to gender, age, and educational level. Across socio-demographic groups, participants predominantly described anxiety using psychological labels, identified behavioural changes as key indicators, and generally endorsed formal treatment options. However, meaningful variations emerged. Females, older participants, and those with lower educational attainment more frequently attributed anxiety to psychological causes, whereas males—particularly those in early to middle adulthood—and participants with higher education more often emphasised social and traditional explanations. Formal help-seeking was commonly endorsed across genders and age groups and among those with lower education, while participants with higher education more frequently recommended informal sources of support. Although tertiary-educated participants showed a relatively higher endorsement of informal help than other groups, formal help-seeking remained the preferred option even among them. The findings demonstrate that traditional leaders’ conceptualisations of anxiety are nuanced and shaped by intersecting socio-demographic factors. This study contributes to global and cross-cultural mental health literature by highlighting the importance of culturally and demographically responsive approaches when engaging indigenous leadership structures in mental health promotion and service delivery.