Utun: Shared Emotional Memory from Collective Trauma in Somali Proverbs and Poems

Abstract

Decades of conflicts and violence have caused significant collective trauma among the Somali people of East Africa, resulting in widespread psychological distress among them. This study examined Somali proverbs and poems to gain insight into how Somalis conceptualized the psychological impact of collective trauma. Unlike individual PTSD, collective trauma affect entire groups, destabilizing society and influencing future generations. The findings show that Somalis use the concept of utun, a shared emotional memory from trauma, described as a collective wound. The research suggests that they view trauma communally and believe addressing utun is vital for healing their communities. The concept reveals how Somalis perceive the psychological impact of collective trauma and provides perspectives for community healing and conflict resolution. Using qualitative methods and a constructivist grounded theory approach, I analyzed eighteen proverbs and three poems that addressed emotional distress and coping mechanisms in Somali culture. I also consulted three experts in Somali literature to ensure my interpretation was accurate. Insights gained from this study may inform the conflict resolution process and enable mediators to adopt more effective approaches.