Stolen children suffered damage like war victims, inquiry told
Sarah Smiles; 17/4/08
Members of the stolen generations suffered psychological damage similar to victims of war and torture, a clinical psychologist has told a Senate inquiry. Dr Christine Gillies, who has worked with the stolen generations, said research showed that denying children bonding with their mothers could cause brain damage — specifically the ability to control emotions. “There can be little doubt that the consequences of enforced separation of indigenous children … (caused) severe persistent psychological injuries,” says the submission of Dr Gillies to the inquiry into a bill that proposes compensating the stolen generations.
Tags: Aboriginal, Australia, Reconciliation