Motivation and emotion/Book/2024/Lateral violence among Indigenous Australians

Lateral violence among Indigenous Australians:
What drives it and how can it be addressed?

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Overview

In a remote Indigenous Australian community, Sarah, a young Aboriginal woman, is excited about her new role as a community health worker. However, she soon faces criticism and exclusion from some community members who accuse her of "acting white" and "forgetting her roots." Sarah feels torn between her desire to help her community and the pressure to conform to others' expectations.

Lateral violence is a significant issue affecting Indigenous Australian communities. It can manifest as harmful behaviours directed at members of one's own marginalized group. This phenomenon, rooted in historical trauma and ongoing systemic inequalities, poses a substantial challenge to individual and community well-being.

Psychological science offers valuable insights into understanding and addressing lateral violence. By examining the underlying psychological mechanisms, historical context, and contemporary factors contributing to this issue, we can develop effective strategies for intervention and healing.

Figure 1: an illustration of the cycle of transgenerational trauma, showing how trauma and lateral violence are passed from grandmother to mother to daughter. Each generation inherits unresolved trauma and learned behaviours, perpetuating a cycle of harm within Indigenous communities. This visual emphasizes the need for healing to break the cycle.

This chapter explores the complex dynamics of lateral violence among Indigenous Australians, its drivers, and potential solutions. We will delve into relevant psychological theories, examine current research, and consider culturally appropriate approaches to addressing this critical issue.

Focus Questions

How does historical trauma contribute to lateral violence in Indigenous communities?
What psychological theories explain the persistence of lateral violence?
How does lateral violence impact individual and community well-being?
What strategies can effectively address and prevent lateral violence?
How can cultural strengthening combat lateral violence?

Understanding lateral violence

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Definition and manifestations

Lateral violence, also known as horizontal violence or intra-racial conflict, refers to harmful behaviors and aggression within systemically exploited or oppressed groups. It is commonly described as infighting between people from the same group who have historically been oppressed(AHRC,2011).

Lateral violence can take many forms:

Bullying: This may include both overt acts of aggression and subtle forms of intimidation that target individuals within the community. For example, a young Indigenous artist may face ridicule from peers for pursuing their passion, leading to feelings of isolation.
Gossip: Spreading rumors or negative information about others undermines trust and solidarity within the community. This behavior can create a toxic atmosphere where individuals feel unsafe to express themselves.
Social Exclusion: Individuals may be ostracized or marginalized by their peers for various reasons, including perceived success or deviation from community norms. A case in point is when a community member achieves educational success but is shunned for "betraying" their culture.
Physical Violence: In extreme cases, lateral violence can escalate to physical confrontations. Instances of fights breaking out during community events often stem from unresolved tensions and frustrations.

These behaviors are often rooted in internalized oppression and historical trauma. For instance, Sarah—a young Aboriginal woman excited about her new role as a community health worker—faces backlash from some community members who accuse her of "acting white" and "forgetting her roots."

This tension illustrates how lateral violence can create barriers to progress within communities.The emotional toll on individuals like Sarah is profound. Her initial excitement is overshadowed by feelings of alienation and self-doubt. This scenario exemplifies how lateral violence undermines aspirations while reinforcing negative stereotypes.

Historical context

The roots of lateral violence lie in the historical trauma inflicted upon Indigenous Australians through colonization, forced removal from land, and systemic oppression (Clark et al., 2021). The legacy of colonization has led to a loss of cultural identity and traditional conflict resolution methods, perpetuated by ongoing discrimination and marginalization.

The cycle of transgenerational trauma illustrates how unresolved issues are passed down through generations. Trauma inherited from grandmother to mother to daughter perpetuates a cycle of harm within Indigenous communities. Each generation grapples with the weight of past injustices while navigating their own challenges.

Understanding this context is crucial for addressing lateral violence effectively. Colonization has created an environment where individuals feel compelled to exert power over one another instead of uniting against systemic injustices. The pressure to conform to community expectations can lead individuals like Sarah to feel torn between their aspirations and the need for acceptance.

Drivers and impacts of lateral violence

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Colonial legacy and systemic oppression

The ongoing impact of colonization, including loss of land, culture, and autonomy, continues to fuel lateral violence (Clark et al., 2021). Systemic discrimination and lack of access to resources exacerbate feelings of powerlessness and frustration.

Many Indigenous Australians have internalized negative stereotypes about their identity. This internalized oppression leads to self-destructive behaviors and conflicts within communities (Clark & Augoustinos, 2015). Individuals may project their frustrations onto those closest to them due to feelings of inadequacy stemming from systemic oppression.

Colonial legacies create an environment where competition replaces cooperation. The scarcity mentality fostered by systemic inequalities leads individuals to view each other as rivals rather than allies in the struggle for recognition and justice. This dynamic further entrenches the cycle of lateral violence within communities.

Internalized oppression

Many Indigenous Australians have internalized negative stereotypes about their identity, leading to self-destructive behaviors and conflicts within communities (Clark & Augoustinos, 2015).

Individual well-being

Lateral violence significantly affects mental health by contributing to increased rates of anxiety, depression, and psychological distress (Clark et al., 2016).It erodes self-esteem, cultural pride, and confidence in identity. Individuals may feel discouraged from pursuing education or career advancement due to the fear of being ostracized by their community. The emotional toll can be debilitating; many individuals may withdraw from their communities altogether in an attempt to escape negativity.

Sarah's experience reflects this reality; her aspirations are stifled by the fear that pursuing her goals will lead to further alienation. This situation exemplifies how lateral violence can undermine individuals’ aspirations while reinforcing negative stereotypes.

Table 1

Mental Health Outcomes Impacted by Lateral Violence

Mental Health Outcome	Description of Impact	Prevalence Rates	Research Findings
Anxiety	Increased anxiety due to social exclusion or criticism.	Higher in Indigenous communities	Clark et al. (2016) found anxiety as a common outcome of lateral violence.
Depression	Higher rates of depression from chronic stress and low self-esteem.	2.5 times higher in Indigenous communities	Lateral violence significantly contributes to depression (Clark et al., 2016).
Psychological Distress	Elevated distress, including feelings of hopelessness.	Significantly higher in Indigenous communities	Exacerbates psychological distress, leading to hopelessness and despair (Australian Human Rights Commission, 2011).
Self-Esteem	Eroded self-esteem due to constant criticism and negative feedback.	Common among Indigenous youth	Internalized oppression erodes self-esteem (Clark & Augoustinos, 2015).
Cultural Pride	Reduced cultural pride from pressure to conform to dominant norms.	Linked to lower mental health outcomes	Leads to abandonment of cultural practices (Australian Human Rights Commission, 2011).
Identity Confidence	Decreased confidence in one's identity, leading to identity confusion.	Prevalent among Indigenous adolescents	Creates identity confusion and low self-esteem (Clark & Augoustinos, 2015).

Community cohesion

Lateral violence undermines trust within communities by disrupting relationships that are crucial for social cohesion. It creates divisions based on perceived authenticity regarding Indigenous identity (Clark & Augoustinos, 2015).

The cycle of trauma perpetuated by lateral violence disrupts the transmission of cultural knowledge and practices among generations. When trust erodes within a community, it becomes increasingly difficult for members to work together toward common goals. This fragmentation affects individual relationships while hampering collective efforts toward cultural revitalization.

The erosion of trust not only impacts interpersonal relationships but also hinders collective action needed for social change. Without a united front against external oppression, communities become vulnerable to further marginalization.

Psychological theories and research insights

This section reviews key findings from recent studies and their implications for addressing the issue.

Theoretical Frameworks

Oppression theory

Oppression theory serves as a critical lens through which we can understand lateral violence as a direct result of systemic oppression experienced by Indigenous peoples (AHRC, 2011). This theory posits that when individuals belong to marginalized groups facing discrimination, they may internalize these oppressive narratives. Consequently, rather than directing their frustrations outward toward systemic injustices such as colonialism or racism—they may turn on one another within their communities. This internalized oppression creates fertile ground for harmful behaviors like gossiping or bullying among peers who share similar experiences of marginalization.

For instance, in a study conducted in an urban Aboriginal community in Australia, participants reported feeling pressured to conform to certain behaviors deemed "authentic" by their peers. Those who pursued education or professional opportunities were often criticized for "acting white," which created divisions among community members rather than fostering support for individual growth.

Post-colonial theory and intergenerational trauma

Post-colonial theory provides insight into how historical trauma from colonization continues to shape contemporary experiences within Indigenous communities (Clark & Augoustinos, 2015). It emphasizes that colonial practices disrupted traditional social structures and cultural identities, creating conditions ripe for lateral violence. The legacy of dispossession not only strips away land but also erodes cultural practices that foster resilience and unity among community members. Intergenerational trauma posits that the psychological scars inflicted by colonization are passed down through generations—contributing further to cycles of dysfunction within families.

Intergenerational trauma plays a significant role in post-colonial theory as it highlights how historical injustices affect not just individuals but entire families over time. A case study analyzing intergenerational trauma among Aboriginal families reveals patterns where children exhibit behavioral issues linked directly to their parents’ unresolved traumas stemming from past injustices like forced removals during the Stolen Generations.

Social identity theory

Social identity theory offers a framework for understanding how in-group favoritism can lead to discrimination against others within the same group (Tajfel & Turner, 1979). This theory suggests that when individuals derive part of their self-esteem from belonging to a particular social group like an Indigenous community.They may engage in behaviors that reinforce group boundaries at the expense of others perceived as outsiders or less "authentic." Such dynamics contribute significantly to lateral violence as individuals jockey for status or validation within their group.

In various Indigenous contexts across Australia, research shows that individuals who achieve educational success often face backlash from peers who view their accomplishments as a betrayal of cultural values. This creates an environment where success is met with suspicion rather than celebration.

Feminist theory

Feminist theory provides an essential perspective on how gender intersects with issues of race and class in understanding lateral violence (Hooks, 2000). Bell hooks emphasizes the importance of recognizing how patriarchal structures exacerbate existing inequalities within marginalized communities. In many cases, women bear the brunt of both external oppression and internalized misogyny manifesting as lateral violence against each other. By examining these intersections through a feminist lens, we can better understand how power dynamics shape interpersonal relationships within Indigenous communities.

The experiences shared by women in various Aboriginal communities often highlight how gendered expectations lead to competition rather than collaboration among women striving for empowerment in predominantly patriarchal environments.

Decoloniality theory

Decoloniality theory challenges colonial narratives and seeks to reclaim Indigenous knowledge systems (Yunkaporta, 2019). Tyson Yunkaporta argues for a return to traditional ways of knowing that prioritize relationality over individualism. By re-establishing connections with land, culture, and community practices, we can disrupt cycles of lateral violence rooted in colonial frameworks. This approach advocates for collective healing rather than individual blame. A crucial step in addressing the root causes of harm within communities.

Projects aimed at revitalizing traditional ecological knowledge among Indigenous youth demonstrate how reconnecting with cultural practices fosters pride in identity while reducing instances of lateral violence through strengthened communal bonds.

These theoretical frameworks help contextualize the phenomenon of lateral violence within broader societal issues related to power dynamics and identity politics. They provide valuable insights into why these harmful behaviors persist despite efforts toward healing and reconciliation.

Culturally Appropriate Approaches to Addressing Lateral Violence

Addressing lateral violence requires culturally sensitive interventions that resonate with Indigenous values and practices:

Community-Led Healing Programs

Initiatives designed by community members are more likely to succeed because they incorporate local knowledge and cultural practices. Programs such as storytelling circles allow individuals to share experiences while fostering empathy among participants. A storytelling circle held monthly in an urban Aboriginal center provides a safe space where participants share personal experiences related to mental health challenges exacerbated by lateral violence incidents. These gatherings foster solidarity among attendees while promoting emotional healing through shared narratives.

Integration of Traditional Healing Practices

Incorporating traditional healing methods alongside Western approaches can create a holistic healing environment that respects cultural beliefs while addressing mental health issues effectively. In one remote community in Northern Territory Australia, traditional healers work alongside mental health professionals in collaborative programs designed specifically for youth struggling with anxiety related to social exclusion stemming from lateral violence incidents.

Education on Cultural Identity

Programs aimed at reinforcing cultural pride can mitigate feelings of inferiority stemming from systemic oppression. Education initiatives should focus on teaching younger generations about their history and cultural heritage while promoting resilience against negative stereotypes.

Schools incorporating Aboriginal history into curricula have reported improved self-esteem among students who identify with those histories—demonstrating how education can serve as both empowerment and protection against lateral violence's damaging effects.

Conflict Resolution Training

Providing training on conflict resolution rooted in traditional practices can empower community members with tools for addressing disputes without resorting to harmful behaviors associated with lateral violence.

A program developed by local Elders teaches negotiation skills based on traditional customs aimed at resolving conflicts peacefully—helping reduce instances where grievances escalate into public altercations fueled by frustration over historical injustices.

Support Networks

Establishing peer support networks allows individuals affected by lateral violence to connect with others who understand their experiences fostering healing through shared narratives.

Cultural Revitalization

Engaging communities in revitalizing language programs or traditional arts fosters pride in identity while mitigating feelings associated with marginalization.

Example: A local initiative focused on reviving traditional dance has brought together youth from various backgrounds fostering unity while instilling pride through cultural expression amidst ongoing challenges posed by colonial legacies.

Collaboration with Elders

Involving respected Elders in discussions about healing strategies ensures that interventions are culturally appropriate while promoting intergenerational dialogue about trauma recovery. Elders often serve as custodians not just of knowledge but also wisdom regarding navigating modern challenges providing invaluable perspectives on healing strategies tailored specifically toward addressing contemporary issues like lateral violence effectively.

These approaches not only address the symptoms of lateral violence but also work toward healing the underlying issues that contribute to its prevalence within Indigenous communities.

Conclusion

In this book chapter, we explored the concept of lateral violence among Indigenous Australians and its deep-rooted connections to the history of colonization and ongoing systemic oppression. We learned how the traumatic experiences of dispossession, forced assimilation, and cultural suppression have led to long-lasting psychological effects and complex emotional responses within Indigenous communities.

The manifestations of lateral violence, such as bullying, gossip, social exclusion, and sometimes physical aggression, are not inherent to Indigenous cultures but rather responses to generations of trauma and powerlessness. Research from Clark et al. (2015) demonstrated how lateral violence impacts all domains of social and emotional well-being, including mind, emotions, body, family, community, culture, and spirituality. Particularly concerning is the finding that lateral violence contributes to increased rates of anxiety, depression, and in some cases, suicidal thoughts among Indigenous individuals. We've also seen how lateral violence can be passed down through generations, similar to intergenerational trauma. The disruption of traditional social structures and cultural practices continues to affect families and communities today, perpetuating cycles of lateral violence.

While this chapter has focused primarily on the experiences of Indigenous Australians, it's important to note that lateral violence is a broader societal issue rooted in systemic oppression and is not exclusive to Indigenous communities. The labeling and discussion of lateral violence, while necessary for addressing the issue, must be approached carefully to avoid further stigmatization or misrepresentation of Indigenous peoples (Whyman et al., 2021).

To summarize, lateral violence among Indigenous Australians is a complex issue with deep historical roots and ongoing systemic drivers. Its impacts are far-reaching, affecting individual well-being, community cohesion, and cultural continuity.

References

Australian Human Rights Commission. (2011). Chapter 2: Lateral violence in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Retrieved from https://humanrights.gov.au/our-work/publications/chapter-2-lateral-violence-aboriginal-and-torres-strait-islander-communities

Clark, Y., & Augoustinos, M. (2015). What's in a name? Lateral violence within the Aboriginal community in Adelaide, South Australia. The Australian Community Psychologist, 27(2), 19-34.

Clark, Y., Augoustinos, M., & Malin, M. (2016). Lateral violence within the Aboriginal community in Adelaide: "It affects our identity and wellbeing". Journal of Indigenous Wellbeing, 1(1), 43-52.

Kalaski, A., Tyndall, M., & Clark, B. A. (2022). Indigenous Women's Experiences of Lateral Violence: A Systematic Literature Review. Trauma, Violence, & Abuse, 23(5), 1577-1593. https://doi.org/10.1177/15248380211073840

Whyman, T., Adams, K., Carter, A., & Jobson, L. (2021). Lateral violence in Indigenous peoples. Australian Psychologist, 56(1), 1–14. https://doi.org/10.1080/00050067.2021.1893595

External links

Lateral violence (humanrights.gov.au)

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Bullying & lateral violence (Creativespirits.info)
Contra-bullying and lateral violence at work(Psychology Today)

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