THE PSYCHOLOGICAL AND SOCIAL CONSEQUENCES OF TORTURE SURVIVORS IN PAKISTAN

Abstract

This study examines the varied psychological and social impact of torture upon survivors in Pakistan including the profound and enduring consequences on mental health, relationships and societal inclusion. Using qualitative and quantitative methodology, the study delineates broadly the dimensions of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, and social alienation experienced by torture survivors. The purpose of this study is to emphasize the urgency of psychological support and policy reform following torture trauma. With the aid of in-depth interviews, clinical investigations, and the analysis of social observation, the study sheds light on a broad spectrum of torture victims from many provinces. The results show that survivors not only endure personal psychological trauma but also the stigma of having broken family relationships, the challenges of returning to a community and life-long disabilities. These effects are frequently exacerbated by the lack of state rehabilitation systems and by the institutionalization of torture in some entities. The main contention of this article is that in the absence of systemic legal and psychological forms of intervention victims of abuse will continue to be re-traumatized and marginalized, hence obstructing personal recovery and social healing in Pakistan.