The Impact of War-Induced Trauma on Young Israelis: A Qualitative Examination of the David’s Circle Project at Koh Phangan

Authors

  • Rachel Lev-Wiesel Professor Head, The Clinical Body & Mind Track, Center for Innovation in Social Work, Tel-Hai University on the Rise, Israel; The Emili Sagol Research Center for Creative Art Therapies, University of Haifa, Israel; The FAA – Emili Sagol Creative Arts Research and Innovation for Well-being Center, Chulalongkorn University, Thailand.
  • Ofra Walter Professor, Dept of Education, Tel Hai Academic College, Israel
  • Yael Rom-Shoshani
  • Nisara Jaroenkajornkij Lecturer, M.A. Expressive Arts Therapy Programme & The FAA – Emili Sagol Creative Arts Research and Innovation for Well-being Center, Chulalongkorn University, Thailand
  • Bussakorn Binson Professor, Faculty of Fine and Applied Arts & The FAA – Emili Sagol Creative Arts Research and Innovation for Well-being Center, Chulalongkorn University, Thailand

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.14456/jucr.2025.13

Keywords:

War-induced Trauma, David’s Circle Project, October 7th Hamas Massacre, Israeli Survivors of the Nova Music Festival, Reservists

Abstract

This qualitative study explores the psychological impact of war-induced trauma on young Israelis who sought refuge and healing in Koh Phangan, Thailand, through participation in the David’s Circle Project. The project provides a supportive, non-clinical space for the October 7th trauma Nova survivors and young reserve soldiers. In-depth, semi-structured interviews and group storytelling revealed common themes of emotional dislocation, mistrust, and existential uncertainty. The findings underscore the importance of alternative, culturally sensitive healing environments for trauma recovery and point to the therapeutic value of grouping in a safe physical and emotional space. Implications for trauma-informed care and post-conflict rehabilitation for young adults are discussed.

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Published

2025-06-17

How to Cite

Lev-Wiesel, Rachel, Ofra Walter, Yael Rom-Shoshani, Nisara Jaroenkajornkij, and Bussakorn Binson. 2025. “The Impact of War-Induced Trauma on Young Israelis: A Qualitative Examination of the David’s Circle Project at Koh Phangan”. Journal of Urban Culture Research 30 (June):207-20. https://doi.org/10.14456/jucr.2025.13.

Issue

Vol. 30: Vol. 30: January-June 2025

Section

Articles

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