The Lasting Psychological Impacts of the 1947 Partition of India
The Lasting Psychological Impacts of the 1947 Partition of India
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Issue Date
2021-10-21
Authors
Khaira, Simran
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Abstract
This paper undertakes a thorough examination of the various lasting psychological impacts of the 1947 Partition of India. The psychological impacts that will be addressed in this paper include grief and loss, displacement and identity, violence against women, and intergenerational trauma. Grief and loss includes the loss of people, homes, as well as the loss of safety and security. The impacts associated with displacement and identity include a loss of national identity and a sense of belonging. Violence against women includes abduction and rape with the associated impacts including trauma, dissociation, depression, and sleep disturbance. The various psychological impacts and atrocities of Partition have made individuals of subsequent generations increasingly susceptible to experiencing intergenerational trauma. There is continued stigma and taboo in the South Asian community pertaining to mental health; therefore, the psychological implications of Partition are seldom talked about in this community. This paper is intended to highlight the importance of accessing mental health support for those who have been impacted by Partition. Additionally, it is intended to assist mental health practitioners working with individuals who have been impacted by Partition in order to better understand and support these clients.
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Keywords
1947 , partition , India , Pakistan , grief , loss , displacement , identity , violence against women , trauma , intergenerational trauma , transgenerational trauma