The JW-RWA study explored the subjective social and psychological wellbeing of Jehovah’s Witnesses in Rwanda in the aftermath of the Genocide against the Tutsi. Using ecological systems theory and identity theory as frameworks, the research examined the past self (centrality of the Genocide and posttraumatic stress symptoms); the future self (temporal orientation and view of the future); the narrative self (dialogue about the Genocide); family identity (family satisfaction and functioning); and collective identity (perceived changes after conversion and religious coping).
The centrality of the Genocide in respondents’ self-perceptions and world views showed generational differences, with higher percentages of those who were present in Rwanda during the Genocide being most affected by their past history. Posttraumatic stress symptoms were also highest among those with direct Genocide experiences, with avoidance behaviors being a common coping strategy. Questions about temporal orientation showed a consistent forward-looking perspective across all demographic groups, with respondents generally feeling more positive about their present and future than their past.
The study inquired of respondents with whom they had discussed their family’s Genocide experiences. Wide variations were found between those with direct Genocide experience and those born after the Genocide. Findings indicate that older adults and those targeted to be killed find dialogue about the Genocide most painful; however, in general, lower percentages of respondents were tired of hearing and talking about the Genocide.
Family satisfaction was uniformly high, regardless of gender, age, or Genocide role-situation, with resilience and cohesion within households of Jehovah’s Witnesses that included members who did not share the same religion. No significant differences were found among various generation cohorts or Genocide situation. The vast majority of respondents reported improved emotional and mental wellbeing since becoming Jehovah’s Witnesses. The findings are consistent with other research showing that religious beliefs and community support contribute to coping, optimism, and a sense of collective identity.
