Abstract

VOLKAN, Vamik D.. Large-group psychodynamics and massive violence. Ciênc. saúde coletiva [online]. 2006, vol.11, suppl., pp. 1199-1210. ISSN 1413-8123.  http://dx.doi.org/10.1590/S1413-81232006000500010.

Beginning with Freud, psychoanalytic theories concerning large groups have mainly focused on individuals' perceptions of what their large groups psychologically mean to them. This text examines some aspects of large-group psychology in its own right and studies psychodynamics of ethnic, national, religious or ideological groups, the membership of which originates in childhood. I will compare the mourning process in individuals with the mourning process in large groups to illustrate why we need to study large-group psychology as a subject in itself. As part of this discussion I will also describe signs and symptoms of large-group regression.When there is a threat against a large-group's identity, massive violence may be initiated and this violence in turn, has an obvious impact on public health.

Keywords : Large-group identity; Large-group regression; Wars; Mourning; Chosen traumas.