Expanding the Timeline of Resistance

Abstract

Scholars have urged psychology to attend more to history, which is also key to understanding the psychology of resistance. Resistance entails struggles grounded in perceived wrongs in the past and present, and vying for a better future. Therefore, we call for expanding the timeline of resistance in research on the psychology of resistance. Using the revolution in Sudan as an example, we unpack how history helps psychology understand dynamics of resistance. We discuss Sudanese perceptions of this resistance as a long-term, anticipated phenomenon rather than a surprising change. Attending to what comes before momentous outbreaks of resistance allows for a better understanding of that resistance. Resistance movements learn from history, and historical narratives of past resistance inform their choices. Importantly, repressive regimes also learn from past resistance and adjust their demobilization accordingly. Both resistance and repression should therefore be analyzed with the before in mind.