Trauma and Identity Development in Yashica Dutt's Coming Out as Dalit

The paper examines Yashica Dutt's Coming Out as Dalit through the framework of Trauma theory, highlighting the emotional and psychological consequences of hiding one's Dalit identity in a rigidly hierarchical society. This study offers a thorough analysis of the psychological pain caused by caste-based discrimination and the lasting impacts of social marginalisation. It underscores how caste discrimination engenders internalised fear, humiliation, and identity disintegration, resulting in persistent psychological distress. This paper examines how Dutt's young teenager experiences of concealing her identity, informed by Erik Erikson's theory of psychosocial development and psychotraumatology, specifically its phases of personal identity versus role confusion and closeness against isolation, impeded the establishment of a coherent sense of self. Presenting oneself as a "higher caste" functions as a survival strategy, simultaneously intensifying feelings of isolation and cognitive dissonance. Her decision to publicly identify as Dalit represents a crucial milestone for confronting and resolving trauma, fostering self-acceptance and empowerment. This study emphasises the effects of systematic oppression on societal progress, mental health, and identity formation, highlighting the necessity of recognising caste-based trauma as a significant psychological concern.