1. Dehumanizing Procedures:
- Prisoners, including families, were stripped of their personal belongings, including clothing, jewelry, and personal items.
- They were assigned identification numbers tattooed on their arms.
- Their heads were shaved to remove any sense of individuality.
- Their clothes were replaced with striped prison uniforms.
2. Dislocation and Chaos:
- Families were typically separated immediately upon arrival at the camp. Men, women, and children were grouped into different barracks or sections of the camp.
- This separation often caused immense distress and anxiety among family members.
- The chaotic and frightening environment added to the trauma of arrival.
3. Initial Orientation:
- The camp authorities typically assigned prisoners to barracks depending on factors such as their health, age, and skills.
- They received a brief explanation of the camp rules and regulations, which instilled fear and made daily life precarious.
4. Roll Call and Counting:
- Families endured frequent roll calls, which could last for hours, regardless of weather conditions.
- Those who were too frail or could not attend roll calls could face severe punishments.
- Failing to answer during roll call could have consequences for the entire group.
5. Harsh Living Conditions:
- Families were typically assigned to overcrowded barracks, often without adequate heating, lighting, or sanitary facilities.
- Many concentration camps also imposed forced labor and grueling daily tasks on the prisoners.
6. Psychological Impact:
- The sudden loss of autonomy, the constant fear of persecution, and the exposure to violence and brutality significantly impacted individuals and families' mental health.
- Many prisoners, including members of the same family, suffered from trauma, stress-induced illnesses, and psychological distress.
7. Survival Instincts and Support:
- Amidst the hardships, families sought various ways to support each other, such as sharing food, providing emotional resilience, and taking care of one another to increase their chances of survival.
8. Family Bonds:
- In concentration camps, the strength of family bonds was crucial for individuals' capacity to resist and stay hopeful.
- Families played a critical role in maintaining a sense of togetherness, compassion, and hope in dire circumstances.
Remember that this account provides a general overview of their initial experiences in concentration camps. Each camp operated differently, and variations occurred depending on their location, specific purpose, and over time.