Intentions for Advice and Help Seeking Among Jewish and Arab Youth in Israel

Abstract

This study dealt with advice and help-seeking intentions of Jewish and Arab youth in Israel toward family, friends, and professionals in relation to their interpersonal relationships with family and friends. The random sample consisted of 865 participants: 653 Jewish and 212 Arab youths. Four original instruments were used. The first consisted of a demographic questionnaire, the second explored help-seeking intentions, and two other questionnaires dealt with interpersonal relationships with family and friends. The two ethnic groups preferred using different sources for advice and help. Arab youth preferred formal help systems, whereas Jewish youth were more inclined to turn to parents and friends. Significant gender differences were also indicated. Explanations highlight the differences in the influence of the relationships with friends and family on help-seeking intentions. The potential implications of the findings for the development of appropriate services for different cultural groups are discussed.