2010 Student Research Conference:
23rd Annual Student Research Conference

It's hard to listen to the truth
Colette A. Linton
Dr. Elaine McDuff, Faculty Mentor

The displacement of thousands of people and restricting their freedoms were well instated by the white population and supported by various acts and policies. Fear, torment, and helplessness were afflictions felt by a multitude of victims. It was only after the construction of the Truth Commission that many of these stories were heard and then a truer history could be recorded. Its prime goal was to examine to what degree the participation of the TRC was related to the current psychiatric status and forgiveness among the survivors. This study operated on the theory that giving testimony would serve a therapeutic function and was based on extensive evidence that forgiveness is also associated with improved mental health. Despite the limitations of the Truth Commission its findings were important and provided preliminary data for constructing future truth commissions.

Keywords: Truth and Reconciliation Commision, Apartheid

Topic(s):African Studies

Presentation Type: Oral Paper

Session: 56-8
Location: MG 1090
Time: 3:20

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