austrian psychotherapists speak out against racism

The Austrian Federal Association of Psychotherapists (ÖBVP) has issued a strong call against racism in the ongoing election campaign.

The statement decries “racism and exclusion” in the current National Council election. Highlighting that there is no agreed definition and no consensus on the origins of racism, the Association describes racism through the individualization thesis (Individualisierungsthese): 

There is a significant correlation between extreme-right orientation and a primary focus on money, personal advancement and social status. There is an over-identification with achievement and advancement ideologies. 

Highlighting the racist spins that the migration debate currently has in Austria, the Association states that the perceived threat is not the immigrant(s) but the person’s own anxiety to fail or anxiety of inability. “Strength and superiority are the most important norms.” The statement adds: “Racist tendencies coincide with the desire for a white, heterosexual patriarchal society.”