Helen Suzman: a psychobiographical — psychosocial developmental trajectory study

Abstract

The primary aim of this study was to describe Helen Suzman's (1917Suzman's ( -2009 psychosocial developmental trajectory within her socio-historical context through the application of the stage based description of psychosocial development by Erikson. Two methodological strategies were used. Alexander's psychobiographical model was used to prioritise and extract salient data. Furthermore, a conceptual framework and matrix enabled the longitudinal exploration of Suzman's development. Findings suggest that Suzman progressed successfully through relevant psychosocial stages and accrued appropriate ego strengths. Recommendations are made for future psychobiographical studies.

Meaning and wellness: A comparative psychobiography on Helen Suzman and Beyers Naudé

“…With growing awareness of the Afrikaner Nationalist inclinations of the local media and developing insight into local politics and the oppression of Black South Africans, Suzman became “utterly preoccupied” ( Suzman, 1993 , p. 15) with issues of racial discrimination. Helen’s ego-interests expanded significantly through her occupational role ( Fouché, Nel, & Van Niekerk, 2014 ) as her analysis of discriminatory policies for the South African Institute for Race Relations (SAIRR) launched her political career and a commitment to oppose racial inequalities ( Suzman, 1993 ). She demonstrated careful attention to both detail and principle and was able to consider various perspectives of an argument before formulating her own view ( O’Regan, 2011 ).…”

“…During this brief period (1959–1961), Suzman observed the decolonisation of African nations as representative of ethical values related to liberty, equality, and autonomy ( Suzman, 1993 ). The government’s continued implementation of apartheid policy had directly opposed her values and the expression of her generative concern ( Fouché et al, 2014 ). Her growing experience of her party as an ineffective vessel for opposition culminated in a split from the United Party ( Suzman, 1993 ).…”

“…As a “cheeky female with a sharp tongue which she used without regard to rank or gender” within a male- and Afrikaner-dominated Parliament ( Suzman, 1993 , p. 114), Suzman saw herself as an honourary representative for the oppressed and a fighter for the rights of the disenfranchised. She demonstrated her generative concern through a high level of productivity and accountability under hostile and isolating conditions ( Fouché et al, 2014 ). Suzman’s wellbeing would have been supported by her active and socially engaged lifestyle, as well as the care within her family, despite occasional political disagreements.…”

“…She maintained exemplary productivity levels but enjoyed the newfound camaraderie of working towards shared goals in a more supportive environment. Generativity was again expressed through her commitment, involvement, and concern for the community at large, she consulted with local leaders and opposed forced removals throughout the country ( Fouché et al, 2014 ). She continued to enjoy the support of her family, a sense of connectedness with a like-minded community of individuals, and the validation of her work.…”

“…This phase (1989–2009) started with Suzman’s retirement, where after her social interest and generative commitment did not seem to diminish, sustained by continued efforts to advance human rights and civil liberties for future generations ( Fouché et al, 2014 ). Intensely frustrated by her decrease in mobility as she aged, Suzman reflected favourably in her memoirs on her contributions to the abolition of apartheid ( Suzman, 1993 ).…”