The Dugard Case

The question of why Jaycee Dugard did not announce herself after nearly 19 years of captivity has to do with the observation that, to some extent, all of childhood is a seduction. Whether it be good parents or a psychotic kidnapper and his spouse, children are taken in by the rules given them. They believe what they are told, have no comparison with which to judge, and can be induced to ascribe to the most obnoxious set of rules. This poor young girl was subjected to indignities just short of death. She quickly learned that conforming was survival, even if she didn't realize her adaptation. She became so practiced at obeying, she forgot she did not need to continue when she grew out of childhood. This is her tragedy.