Religious Hypocrisy and the Psychology of Oppression in Chimamada Adichie’s Purple Hibiscus

Abstract

This paper entitled “Religious Hypocrisy and the Psychology of Oppression in Chimamada Adichie‟s Purple Hibiscus” examines religious hypocrisy and its profound psychological impacts in some selected characters in Adichie‟s Purple Hibiscus. Although religious hypocrisy and trauma have been recognized as significant issues within religious context, the study aims at filling existing gaps in understanding the specific challenges faced by individuals affected by these phenomena. Through the use of Cognitive Dissonance theory and Truama theory as theoretical anchors, the study explores the psychological and emotional consequences of religious trauma in the hope of foregrounding the relationship between religious hypocrisy and the experience of trauma within religious communities. The study adopted qualitative research methods with the novel as primary source of data and internet, journals, archives and other sources materials as secondary data for the research. The findings of the research which is deep-neck on the full spectrum of experiences and nuances surrounding religious trauma; its isolated aspects of psychological or sociological impacts, reveals the interconnected nature of religious hypocrisy and trauma. By interrogating the selected novel, Purple Hibiscus, the study uncovers the specific challenges individuals face, including feelings of disillusionment, mistrust, and alienation and explores the role of religious community dynamics, leadership structures, and cultural factors in perpetuating or mitigating religious hypocrisy and its associated trauma. The research draws conclusion on the crucial need to support individuals affected by religious hypocrisy and promote healing and resilience within religious communities.