Violence in Israel's Palestinian society: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

BackgroundViolence is a pattern of hostility expressed in attempts to dominate through physical, verbal, or emotional aggression by the strong partner in a relationship. Data show a definite increase in the prevalence of violence in Israel's Palestinian society. The aim of this study was to examine the prevalence of violence and its correlates and the coping patterns by mainstream members of Palestinian citizens in Israel. MethodsThe study included a sample of Arab localities in Israel. Targeted, structured, face-to-face questionnaires were completed by a team of trained interviewers at the home of participants. Eligible households consisted of a husband, wife, and an additional single member of the family (aged 18–40 years) living with the family. FindingsWe surveyed 1775 households in 55 different Arab localities in Israel. 165 (9%) households reported that one of their members or all the family had been exposed to violence. 864 (49%) households reported witnessing violence, the most common cases involving persecution (769 [43%] cases by an unknown person, 204 [12%] cases by a known person, and 183 [10%] cases by a policeman or a soldier) and hitting (1202 [68%] cases by an unknown person, 653 [37%] cases by a known person, and 197 [11%] cases by a policeman or a soldier). 786 (44%) households did not report the event or complain to anyone. 1074 (61%) men and 676 (38%) women aged 18–44 years were witnesses to cases of violence in their surroundings. The main reported causes of violence were unemployment, frustration, and stress resulting from low standards of living in general, the feeling of oppression and discrimination by the Israeli establishment, and a feeling of lack of identification with the state. Most cases of persecution occurred in the neighbourhood, whereas most cases of physical violence occurred outside the neighbourhood but in the same locality. InterpretationViolence in the Palestinian society in Israel is a complex and widespread phenomenon. Joint efforts of the state, policy makers, professionals, and different organisations are needed to reduce its prevalence. These findings could be used as a basis for planning a general programme to reduce violence in Palestinian society. FundingNone.