Caste and Identity Formation of Dalits in Southern India
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Authors
Morioka, Tristan
Issue Date
2011
Type
Thesis
Language
en_US
Keywords
Alternative Title
Abstract
Identity is central to the psychological functioning of members of an oppressed
minority. Based on the structure of the caste system, Dalits occupy the lowest position in
Indian society and encounter frequent discrimination and marginalization. This study
investigates how the caste system influences components and formation of identity in Dalit
individuals. The study was based on thirty-five individual and group discussions
attempting to answer the question, "What does it mean to be a Dalit?" Dalit participants
illustrated that the experience of discrimination, religious affiliation, caste disclosure, and
educational success were important factors in Dalit identities. The experiences of
discrimination, educational success, and in some cases religion were vital to forming a
positive Dalit identity. In order to empower an oppressed community and overcome
injustice it is important to explore what factors lead to achieving a positive and confident
identity.
Description
64 p.
Citation
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