Strategies for coping and dealing with lateral violence among Aboriginal people living in south-east Australia

Lateral violence, a group of behaviours directed towards people of the same group, is considered endemic among Aboriginal people. Behaviours include bullying, gossiping, isolation or exclusion of certain group members, and challenges to one’s Aboriginal identity. Lateral violence impacts all aspects of one’s life. Due to its pervasiveness, this qualitative study investigated strategies employed by Aboriginal people to deal with lateral violence.

Citation:
Whyman T, Murrup-Stewart C, Young UM, Carter A, Jobson L. Strategies for coping and dealing with lateral violence among Aboriginal people living in south-east Australia. Aust J Psychol. 2024;76(1).

Keywords:
Aboriginal health; coping strategies; identity; Lateral violence; qualitative research; social and emotional wellbeing

Abstract:
Lateral violence, a group of behaviours directed towards people of the same group, is considered endemic among Aboriginal people. Behaviours include bullying, gossiping, isolation or exclusion of certain group members, and challenges to one’s Aboriginal identity. Lateral violence impacts all aspects of one’s life. Due to its pervasiveness, this qualitative study investigated strategies employed by Aboriginal people to deal with lateral violence.