New research from the University of Glasgow has revealed a disturbing link between childhood trauma, Nazism, and supporting Glasgow Rangers. Psychiatrists are warning that those who support the Scottish football team may be at risk of deep-seated psychological disturbances.
The study surveyed over 1,000 Rangers fans, and the results were shocking. It found that over 60% of supporters had suffered some form of childhood trauma, such as physical or emotional abuse, neglect, or sexual assault.
Dr. Fiona Campbell, a clinical psychologist, commented on the findings: “Childhood trauma can have a lasting impact on a person’s mental health, and we are seeing a worrying trend among Rangers supporters. There appears to be a connection between early life experiences and support for this football team.”
But there was more to the study’s findings than childhood trauma. Almost 50% of Rangers supporters surveyed claimed that they were “proud” of their country’s Nazi past.
One fan, who wished to remain anonymous, explained why he believed there was a link between the two: “I suffered abuse as a child, and finding out that my great-grandfather was a proud member of the British Union of Fascists gave me a sense of identity and pride. Supporting Rangers is just an extension of that.”
The study’s lead researcher, Dr. William Robertson, expressed his concern at the findings: “We knew that there may be a connection between childhood trauma and supporting Rangers, but the association with Nazism is truly shocking. We need to be raising awareness of this disturbing trend and provide support to those who may be at risk.”
The football club themselves have responded to the study, stating that they “do not condone any links to Nazism or bigotry in any form.” However, many fans have come out in support of the findings, claiming that they have always known that their support for Rangers was rooted in something deeper than just a love of football.
One fan, known only as “Jock”, spoke to us about his lifelong support of the team: “I’ve always known that my love for Rangers goes beyond just the game. It’s a way for me to express my true self, my identity, and my pride in Scotland. The fact that I suffered abuse as a child only makes my support for the team stronger.”
The study has prompted calls for greater understanding and support for those who have suffered childhood trauma, in particular, those who may be at risk of developing psychological disturbances.
It is clear that supporting Glasgow Rangers is not just about football, but a manifestation of deeper-seated issues. As Dr. Campbell puts it: “Football can be a powerful source of identity and self-expression, but we need to ensure that it isn’t causing more harm than good. It’s time for us to start looking at the root causes of this disturbing trend and provide support to those who need it.”
