Paper short abstract:

This paper examines how moral agency operates in the therapeutic experiences of Khmer Rouge survivors undergoing a form of Testimonial Therapy in Cambodia. It argues that symptom improvement is related to feelings of "productivity" engendered through dissemination of therapeutic narratives.

Paper long abstract:

This paper examines how moral agency operates in the therapeutic experiences of Khmer Rouge survivors undergoing an imported form of “Testimonial Therapy” (or “TT”) in Cambodia. TT was initially introduced to local NGOs in 2009 by a Danish psychologist as a form of reparation associated with the country’s transitional justice efforts. Local counselors worked with Buddhist monks to adapt the therapy to the Cambodian context and include a merit transfer ceremony into the public readings of testimonies. Since that time, the therapy has been administered to survivors throughout Cambodia.

From 2017 to 2019, the author followed 35 Khmer Rouge survivors as they underwent TT, as well as 27 survivors who relied solely on traditional healing methods to address symptoms of psychological distress. Assessments conducted three and six months after therapy with a locally-derived mental health instrument showed symptom improvement in the TT group relative to the non-TT group. Extensive participant observation and interviews with survivor family and community networks revealed that continued narration of therapeutic testimonies elicited both sympathy and admiration (sasoe) for those who underwent the therapy. The author argues that continued symptom improvement is related to feelings of productivity and usefulness (mien brayoch) engendered by repeated narrative dissemination. Through sharing therapeutic narratives – which often include moral lessons – elderly Khmer Rouge survivors are able to serve an active role in society and strengthen bonds with their familial and community networks. The author considers the role anthropological research specifically can play in both documenting and informing such interventions.