ABSTRACT

This chapter describes the development of the services for people who have been traumatized by the troubles in Northern Ireland. It reviews the historical development of services for people affected by the Troubles and assesses what impact the violence has had on professionals. The chapter explains object relations theory and interpret some of the problematic scenarios of political violence. It also discusses ways in which people believe individuals, professionals, and wider society can deal with such issues. When the violence and hostility projected into the individual professional or layperson becomes too much there is a schizoid or cutting-off reaction. The chapter examines how health and social care professionals have responded to the political violence, it is essential to analyse critically the development of state and welfare agencies in Northern Ireland. It explores problematic issue of victimhood and plans by the devolved assembly to deliver more appropriate help to people who have suffered as a consequence of the Troubles.