Post Traumatic Slave Syndrome (PTSS) is a condition that exists as a consequence of multigenerational oppression of Africans and their descendants resulting from centuries of chattel slavery. A form of slavery which was predicated on the belief that African Americans were inherently/genetically inferior to whites. This was then followed by institutionalized racism which continues to perpetuate injury. Thus,
Multigenerational Trauma together with continued oppression and the Absence of opportunity to heal or access the benefits available in the society leads to Post Traumatic Slave Syndrome. M+A=P
Under such circumstances these are some of the predictable patterns of behavior that tend to occur:
Key Patterns of behavior reflective of PTSS:
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Vacant Esteem
Insufficient development of what I refer to as primary esteem, and feelings of hopelessness, depression and general self destructive outlook.
Marked Propensity for Anger and Violence
Extreme Feelings Of Suspicion Perceived negative motivations of others. Violence against self, property and others, including the members of ones own group, i.e. friends, relatives, or acquaintances.
Members of ones cultural/ethnic group,
Mores associated with ones cultural/ethnic heritage
Physical characteristics associated with ones cultural/ethnic group
Cultural dissonance:
A feeling of disharmony and psychological conflict resulting from a loss of cultural identity and traditional customs, values and needs.
