New Study Unveils the Protective Role of Agency in Fostering Hope and Life Satisfaction in Young Victims of Military Violence
In a groundbreaking study conducted in multiple geographical contexts and areas of Palestine, researchers have explored the crucial role of agency in promoting hope and life satisfaction among children who have been exposed to military violence.
Key Findings:
- Resilience in the Face of Adversity: The study, involving 965 children (494 males and 471 females), aimed to understand how children in conflict zones deploy resources to maintain functioning, hope, and life satisfaction despite being victims of military violence.
- Positive Predictors: The research identified specific forms of agency that positively predicted life satisfaction and hope among the children. Notably, social agency (β = 0.219; **p < .01) and agency in education (β = 0.11; **p < .01) played a significant role in fostering life satisfaction, while agency on free movement (β = 0.07; **p < .05) contributed to hope.
- Negative Associations: On the flip side, the study found that mental difficulties, including conduct problems (β = −0.09; **p < .01), hyperactivity (β = −0.07; **p < .05), and difficulties in pro-social behavior (β = −0.21; **p < .01), were negatively associated with hope and life satisfaction. Traumatic events (β = −0.16; **p < .01) and trauma symptoms (β = −0.09; **p < .05) also showed a negative correlation with hope.
Implications and Conclusion:
The findings underscore the remarkable resilience of Palestinian children in the face of traumatic experiences. The positive role of agency, particularly in social, educational, and freedom of movement behaviors, emerges as a critical factor in fostering hope and life satisfaction.
As conflict persists in the region, the study suggests that interventions focusing on promoting these positive agentic behaviors can potentially contribute to the psychological well-being of children affected by military violence. By understanding and leveraging these protective factors, researchers and practitioners hope to provide meaningful support to young individuals navigating the complex challenges of life in conflict zones.
Credit: Sciencedirect.com