The Psychological Wellbeing of Palestinian Children Living among Israeli Settlements in Hebron Old City

Palestinian children living among Israeli settlements in Hebron's Old City exhibit significantly higher levels of psychological distress, particularly posttraumatic stress symptoms and overall mental health problems. A study involving 357 Palestinian children aged 8-18 found that girls and younger adolescents reported the highest scores on both the UCLA-PTSD-Reaction Index and Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire. The research, which utilized self-report questionnaires completed by children, mothers, and teachers, highlights the profound impact of prolonged exposure to settlement-related stress on psychological wellbeing. These findings underscore the urgent need for targeted psychological care and support for affected children and their families.

Shehadeh, A. (2021). The Psychological Wellbeing of Palestinian Children Living among Israeli Settlements in Hebron Old City. Academic Journal of Research and Scientific Publishing, 3(28), 30–45. https://doi.org/10.52132/ajrsp.e.2021.282