Decapitatus: The Horrifying Emasculative Symbolism of Terroristic Beheadings

Authors

  • Thomas Michael Christian Dallas Psychoanalytic Center, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center
  • Ron Kimbell Klaras Center for Families

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1234/fa.v0i67.115

Keywords:

Psychoanalytic hermeneutic, Decapitation, Terrorism

Abstract

Perhaps nothing evokes more fear than decapitation. The authors examine the recent scourge of terroristic beheadings initiated by the radical group ISIS. Using Psychoanalytic theory the authors explore possible psychodynamic motivations undergirding decapitative activity as witnessed in the behavior of "Jihadi John" and the terroristic subgroup to which he belongs. The authors argue for a fundamental emasculative fear rooted in unresolved Oedipal conflicts as being crucial in comprehending these recent and public--and horrifying--exhibitions of beheadings.

Author Biographies

Thomas Michael Christian, Dallas Psychoanalytic Center, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center

Thomas is a therapist working with children and families at a community mental health clinic in Texas, USA. Thomas is also an Academic Psychoanalytic Candidate at Dallas Psychoanalytic Center, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Texas, USA.

Ron Kimbell, Klaras Center for Families

Ron is a psychoanalytically informed Clinical Social Worker directing a community mental health agency in Texas, USA.

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Published

2015-02-10

How to Cite

Christian, T. M., & Kimbell, R. (2015). Decapitatus: The Horrifying Emasculative Symbolism of Terroristic Beheadings. Free Associations, (67), 78–84. https://doi.org/10.1234/fa.v0i67.115

Issue

No. 67 (2015)

Section

Forum

License

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