THE THEORY OF TORTURE AND THE TREATMENT OF ITS SURVIVORS - AN INTERVENTION MODEL

Torture is analyzed as an institution which impacts on both the individual survivor and society at large. The authors provide formulations toward a comprehensive treatment approach for survivors of torture and political repression. Interventions are focused on four key areas: (a) restoring physical integrity; (b) promoting psychological reorganization; (c) examining the multiple losses involved in refugee or exile status; and (d) reintegrating the survivor into sociopolitical life. A critical element underlying these interventions is an awareness of and sensitivity to countertransference dynamics. The authors stress the need for a safe therapeutic environment in which the uncovering process can take place, and survivors can rebuild their sense of trust and security.