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Victims of the Genocidal Mind: Societal Indicators and Individual Case Treatment Considerations

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Abstract

This paper uses the theoretical lens of object relations and takes the position that the paranoid-schizoid position and the related mechanism of projective identification—cornerstone pathology found in the phenomenon of fascism and totalitarianism—are not atypical, but rather live within the seemingly normal individual. Using Rwanda as a case example, the author illustrates the continuum of beliefs and actions that can result in genocide, and then describes some of the treatment considerations facing the clinician dealing with victims of genocide.

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Correspondence to Boris Thomas.

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Thomas, B. Victims of the Genocidal Mind: Societal Indicators and Individual Case Treatment Considerations. Clin Soc Work J 36, 185–193 (2008). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10615-007-0130-4

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10615-007-0130-4

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