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Aims <p>This study explores the emotional abuse experienced by Palestinian women within marital and intimate relationships, focusing on the cultural mechanisms and psychological consequences of such violence.</p> Methods <p>Using a qualitative approach, in-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with thirty women, aged 24–48, who sought legal consultation at An-Najah National University’s legal clinic. Thematic analysis of the interview transcripts was performed to identify patterns and meanings in women’s narratives.</p> Results <p>The analysis identified several forms of emotional abuse including public shaming, emotional neglect, coercive control, threats, internalized blame, and resultant mental health deterioration. Women’s words revealed how cultural norms surrounding honor and shame, combined with patriarchal control, create environments that normalize abuse and hinder help-seeking. The findings highlight severe psychological impacts, such as chronic anxiety, depression, and social withdrawal.</p> Conclusions <p>Emotional abuse within Palestinian families is a pervasive, culturally mediated phenomenon with lasting psychological effects. Recognition and targeted interventions are needed to address its hidden harm and support survivors’ well-being.</p>

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Emotional abuse, cultural norms, and psychological consequences for Palestinian women in marital and intimate relationships

  • 期刊论文

  • 出版模式：

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  • 发表日期：

    2026年4月9日

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  • Bilal Hamamra,
  • Ekrema Shehab

摘要

Aims

This study explores the emotional abuse experienced by Palestinian women within marital and intimate relationships, focusing on the cultural mechanisms and psychological consequences of such violence.

Methods

Using a qualitative approach, in-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with thirty women, aged 24–48, who sought legal consultation at An-Najah National University’s legal clinic. Thematic analysis of the interview transcripts was performed to identify patterns and meanings in women’s narratives.

Results

The analysis identified several forms of emotional abuse including public shaming, emotional neglect, coercive control, threats, internalized blame, and resultant mental health deterioration. Women’s words revealed how cultural norms surrounding honor and shame, combined with patriarchal control, create environments that normalize abuse and hinder help-seeking. The findings highlight severe psychological impacts, such as chronic anxiety, depression, and social withdrawal.

Conclusions

Emotional abuse within Palestinian families is a pervasive, culturally mediated phenomenon with lasting psychological effects. Recognition and targeted interventions are needed to address its hidden harm and support survivors’ well-being.