EXPLORING COLLECTIVE TRAUMA AND SUPPORT NEEDS OF QUEER COMMUNITY IN PAKISTAN: A PHENOMENOLOGICAL STUDY

Abstract

Queer community is one of the most marginalized and discriminated community, especially in South Asia. Queerphobia reinforced by the narrative that queer identities came from the West, is quite prevalent, but historically speaking, queer identities existed throughout the Mughal Era and way before that. However, the terminology “khuwaja-sira” is often as an umbrella term more frequently than “queer.” As a result of their marginalization and insufficient support, they are more likely than cisgender and heterosexual people to go through collective trauma, suicide risk and mental health difficulties as well as violence and physical and psychological abuse. Social support seems to be an essential tool that helps reduce the collective trauma and minority stress they experience during their lifetime. The purpose of this study is to explore collective trauma and support needs of queer community in Pakistan. A qualitative and phenomenological research approach was used. In-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with 8 queer individuals in Pakistan. Interviews were recorded and transcribed. Data was analyzed through NVivo12. Through inductive and deductive approach, codes, themes were identified. Four master themes emerged, namely; historical origins of collective trauma, emotional & psychological harm, marginalization through violence & control and interpersonal & intrapersonal support needs. Collective trauma is communal, the impacts and causes of which are multifaceted and there is a need of a queer affirmative and intersectional framework so the wellbeing of the queer individuals can be improved and lives are protected. This study will provide a framework to organizations and groups to curate more inclusive education, training, and outreach programs into routine health-care practice which will not only help fight violence but also help the economy through inclusion of queer individuals at workplaces.