Hiding behind culture: Using social defence systems to explore the malaise of the “old guard” in post-apartheid South Africa

  • Sharon Auld University of KwaZulu-Natal
  • Duncan Cartwright University of KwaZulu-Natal
DOI: https://doi.org/10.17159//2309-8708/2018/n56a2

Abstract

This paper focuses on the experiences of a group of white, Afrikaner, male, former South African Police members who sought psychotherapy during the post-apartheid period. A case study illustrates common themes and explores the applicability of social defence systems theory as a framework for making sense of their symptoms of emotional distress in the wake of threats to their established identity positions. Core findings reflect the painful divergence of psychic and social experiences and the undermining of defensive systems supported by apartheid social values.

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Author Biographies

Sharon Auld, University of KwaZulu-Natal

Discipline of Psychology, School of Applied Human Science
University of KwaZulu-Natal
Durban

Duncan Cartwright, University of KwaZulu-Natal

Discipline of Psychology, School of Applied Human Science
University of KwaZulu-Natal
Durban

Published
2018-08-16
How to Cite
Auld, S., & Cartwright, D. (2018). Hiding behind culture: Using social defence systems to explore the malaise of the “old guard” in post-apartheid South Africa. PINS-Psychology in Society, 56(1), 23-45. https://doi.org/10.17159//2309-8708/2018/n56a2
Issue
Vol. 56 No. 1 (2018)
Section
Articles

Copyright (c) 2018 Sharon Auld, Duncan Cartwright

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