Beyond Negative Socialization, Dehumanization, and De-Individuation on The Management of The Covid-19 Pandemic Volume 3 - Issue 5

Ilongo Fritz Ngale*

• Senior Lecturer Faculty of Education, Department of Adult Education, University of Eswatini, Eswatini

Received: March 20, 2021   Published: March 30, 2021

Corresponding author: Ilongo Fritz Ngale, Senior Lecturer Faculty of Education, Department of Adult Education, University of Eswatini, Eswatini

DOI: 10.32474/JAAS.2021.03.000176

 

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Abstract

This study examined the psychosocial impacts and management of the CORONA virus from triple perspectives; negative socialization, dehumanization, and de-individuation. The literature of the study was focused around the following schools of thought; social psychology, cognitive psychology, psychodynamic theory, and behaviorism. The theoretical framework of this paper is articulated around Critical Theoretical Analyses. The paper posits that negative socialization in the management of the COVID – 19 pandemic is characterized by; stasis, tunnel vision, cognitive distortions, and harsh superego. Secondly, dehumanization is a function of; a tabula rasa myth, the suppression of human rights, and ‘reverse negative utilitarianism’. Thirdly, de-individuation is occurring during the present pandemic because of; infobesity and reinforcing aspects of preconventional and conventional morality. The suggested way forward in the management of epidemics in general, and the present COVID – 19 pandemic in particular envisages the following triple axes; transcending the behaviourist ethos (treating humans like objects), positive socialization, a re-humanising perspective, individuation, and holistic medicine.

Keywords: Critical Theoretical Analyses; Negative Socialization; Dehumanization; De-Individuation; Preconventional and Conventional Morality

Abstract| Introduction| Objectives| Review of Related Literature| Methodology| Findings and Discussions| Way Forward| Ethics of Care| Conclusion| References|