Developmental Transformations of Self and Identity in the Context of Oppression

We explore the developmental progression to false consciousness in oppressed groups by integrating theories and research in social, political, and developmental psychology. We identify necessary conditions for development of critical consciousness that may undo false consciousness and be empowering to members of oppressed groups. These principles are applied to research on a racially oppressed group in Guatemala, which has been the site for oppressive domination of Mayan-descent groups for more than three decades. Comparisons are made for the oppressed group in Guatemala in data collected before and after the signing of peace accords.