04/11/2025
🌿✨ Let’s Talk About Lateral Violence ✨🌿
Lateral violence happens when members of an oppressed or marginalised group turn their anger, pain, or frustration toward each other — instead of the systems that created that pain in the first place.
It’s also called horizontal violence or intra-racial conflict, and it’s often rooted in historical trauma, internalised oppression, and feelings of powerlessness.
💬 What It Can Look Like:
• Gossiping, rumours, or malicious talk
• Bullying, shaming, or belittling others
• Social exclusion or isolation
• Criticism or personal put-downs
• Sabotage or withholding support
• Unfair workloads or withheld opportunities
• In extreme cases, physical violence
These behaviours can appear in families, workplaces, and communities, causing harm not only to individuals, but to the collective wellbeing of the group.
🌱 Understanding the “Why”
Lateral violence often grows from:
💔 The stress and anger of ongoing oppression
🧠 Internalised trauma and stereotypes
💬 Learned patterns of survival
😞 Feeling powerless to challenge external systems
When we can name it, we can change it. Recognising lateral violence is the first step toward healing, unity, and cultural strength.
💛 If you’ve experienced or witnessed lateral violence:
You are not alone. Support, healing, and safe conversations are possible.
💻 Outlook Psychology Practice offers Telehealth appointments Australia-wide, with psychologists experienced in trauma-informed, culturally sensitive care.
📞 1300 007 865 | 📧 admin@opgove.com.au
🌐 www.outlookpsychology.com.au
