Violence, poverty, and lack of essential services have led to a continuous state of tension among the people of Yucatán. This troubling scenario can ignite accumulated frustrations, driving individuals to take justice into their own hands.
Dr. Fátima Flores Palacios, a Social and Health Psychology expert from the Peninsular Center for Humanities and Social Sciences (Cephcis) at UNAM, highlighted these issues while discussing the lynching and death of a young man in Tekit. According to her, the incident reflects a broader structural problem not just isolated to Tekit, but affecting the entire state and beyond.
Dr. Flores Palacios explained that the incident in Tekit is indicative of deeper societal issues, including substance abuse and the lack of positive incentives for young people. She noted that violence is intertwined with poverty and the lack of education, healthcare, and basic services. According to Coneval data from 2018-2022, 300,000 people in Yucatán live in extreme poverty.
The psychologist emphasized that economic hardship, mental health issues, and overall well-being contribute to continuous tension. The severity of the situation can exacerbate frustrations, leading people to take extreme actions.
From a psychosocial perspective, Dr. Flores Palacios explained that structural problems are complex and cannot be viewed in isolation. Negative emotions and frustrations can spread through communities, leading to mob behavior and extreme violence, as seen in Tekit.
She also noted that humans possess both life-affirming and destructive tendencies. In times of frustration and lack of care, negative energy can dominate, resulting in deadly consequences.
Dr. Flores Palacios called for state intervention to address the social breakdown. Public policies focused on education, mental health, and addiction prevention are essential. She stressed the importance of early intervention and support to prevent crises.
The psychologist also condemned the act of filming the lynching and exposing minors to such violence, highlighting the societal decline in values and ethics.
She urged the state to ensure that young people have access to education and safe spaces, as well as opportunities to avoid involvement in drugs. Educational programs and social conditions must be improved to provide equal opportunities for development and a life free from violence.
Addressing these deep-seated issues is crucial for building a society that fosters well-being and reduces violence in Yucatán.
Source: Diario de Yucatan
