Of the close to one million refugees from around the world who have entered the United States fleeing repression, war, terrorism, and disease, thousands have experienced torture. The most common forms of torture include severe beatings, electrocution, deprivation of sleep or food, and imprisonment under cruel and inhumane conditions. Torture victims are often subjected to rape or other sexual abuse. The purpose of torture is to punish, intimidate, or break the will of those who are seen as a threat to those in power. Those who practice torture desire to destroy the victim s senses of self, trust, and dignity, and to plant fear within him or her.
Torture has multiple effects.
Physical and neurological complications include soreness of wounds, painful scars, stiffness of limbs and muscles, atrophy and paralysis of muscles, hearing and vision loss, persistent headaches, etc. In addition to the physical wounds, torture victims suffer from psychological symptoms such as feelings of anxiety, guilt and shame, powerlessness in relation to the problems of everyday life, problems with concentration, poor sleep with frequent nightmares, impotence, etc. Survivors of torture are often unwilling to disclose information about their experiences. They may be suspicious, frightened, or anxious to forget what has happened. These feelings may discourage them from seeking the help they need.