DEDOVSHCHINA Meaning and
Definition
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"Dedovshchina" is a Russian noun that refers to a phenomenon prevalent in the Russian armed forces, particularly in the conscript system, characterized by the abuse and harassment of new soldiers by more senior personnel. This term, originating from the Russian word "ded" meaning "grandfather" or "an elder," is often translated as "grandfather syndrome" or "rule of the grandfathers."
Dedovshchina encompasses various forms of hazing, bullying, and mistreatment, typically perpetrated by older soldiers and sergeants against junior conscripts. These abusive acts might include physical violence, emotional and psychological abuse, intimidation, extortion, sexual harassment, and tasks designed to humiliate or degrade the new recruits. The goal of dedovshchina is often perceived as establishing a strict hierarchy within the military units and ensuring conformity to both spoken and unspoken rules and rituals.
The repercussions of dedovshchina are far-reaching and can have severe consequences for the victimized soldiers. It can lead to physical injuries, mental health issues such as anxiety and depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and even suicide. The phenomenon has been a matter of concern for the Russian authorities, resulting in various measures to combat dedovshchina and hold the perpetrators accountable.
In conclusion, dedovshchina is a term used to describe the deeply ingrained culture of abuse and mistreatment experienced by new soldiers in the Russian military. It encompasses a range of actions that stem from a desire to assert dominance and maintain a rigid hierarchical structure within these military units.
Etymology of DEDOVSHCHINA
The word "dedovshchina" is a Russian term that refers to a long-standing tradition of hazing, bullying, and abuse in the Russian military, particularly among conscripts.
The etymology of the word can be broken down as follows:
1. "Ded" (дед): The word "ded" in Russian means "grandfather" or "old man". In this context, it is used metaphorically to refer to the senior conscripts who perpetrate the hazing and bullying on the junior conscripts.
2. "Dedovshchina" (дедовщина): The suffix "-shchina" in Russian denotes a process, phenomenon, or state. It is commonly used to indicate a quality related to the root word. In this case, the term dedovshchina refers to the activities and culture associated with the hazing and abuse perpetrated by the "dedy".
