Self-Efficacy and Traumatic Events Among Palestinian Refugee Children Living in Bethlehem Refugee Camps: A Cross-Sectional Study

Children refugees are particularly vulnerable to an increased prevalence of psychological, cognitive, and behavioral problems, as well as unhealthy relationships and trauma. This cross-sectional study examines the experiences of 237 Palestinian refugee children (aged 14–17) in the Bethlehem area. Findings reveal diverse traumatic exposures, with notable gender, household size, and school grade differences. Notably, males reported higher trauma exposure. Traumatic experiences were linked to increased self-efficacy across academic, social, and emotional domains, suggesting resilience. However, gender, household size, and grade impacted self-efficacy. While insightful, the study’s cross-sectional design and sampling limitations warrant caution. Nevertheless, this research informs interventions to support the well-being of Palestinian refugee children and similar populations.