PALESTINIAN CHILDREN AND DANGEROUS LIFE: ADJUSTMENT DURING VIOLENT AND LESS VIOLENT TIMES

A psychological trauma can interrupt the normal progress of development, causing more difficult resolution of current life issues and impeding growth. How this transpires is important in the sense that it provides a framework for understanding why a trauma can have its particular effect upon a child’s later life. Human development consists of a gradual unfolding of personality wherein new learning and skills transform the individual from one state to another. Erikson (1968) describes this process as one of increasing differentiation, following a universal epigenic sequence. Individual development is shaped by cultural and familial influences interacting with genetically based aspects of personality. As social expectations change according to age and as hereditary traits manifest themselves, the individual is confronted with different demands. Because of that children need security, guidance and prospects for the future in order to grow up to be healthy, responsible and happy citizens. War and violence dramatically interfere with the preconditions for optimal development. Unfortunately, Israeli and Palestinian children have not known a day of real peace