(Kaieteur News) – Whistleblowers are often treated as troublemakers because they reveal what institutions would rather keep hidden. Yet in unhealthy organisations, governments, churches, corporations, schools, hospitals, and professional bodies, the person who exposes wrongdoing may be one of the few people still protecting the ethical integrity of the institution.

Childhood experiences influence adulthood profoundly. A child who grew up feeling powerless becomes an adult who desperately needs control. Someone who experienced humiliation become exceptionally sensitive to criticism. A person who learned that vulnerability was dangerous develop an intense need to appear strong. Someone raised in an environment where affection depended upon obedience later expect unquestioning loyalty from employees, followers, colleagues, congregations, or citizens.

Most people who experience childhood adversity do not become abusive or unethical adults. Unresolved psychological conflicts sometimes interact dangerously with power, entitlement and weak accountability. A wounded person without power primarily hurts themselves or those immediately around them. A wounded person with enormous institutional power potentially harms thousands.