Intergenerational Trauma in the Ethiopian-Israeli Community: Signs, Effects and Treatment

What is Intergenerational Trauma?

The phenomenon whereby children and grandchildren of trauma survivors show psychological symptoms — even without direct experience of the original trauma.

What the Ethiopian-Israeli Community Carries

First generation: desert journey through Sudan, family loss, refugee camps, discrimination in Israel (blood affair, Depo-Provera affair, employment bias), cultural grief for village life.

Second generation: responds to emotional suppression at home, high academic expectations, identity insecurity, shame about difference, difficulty discussing feelings (cultural norm).

Warning Signs

Chronic anxiety without clear cause, relationship difficulties, disconnection from family and community, concentration and learning problems, deep shame about heritage.

Research

Dr. Esther Goata (Haifa University, 2022) found second-generation members show anxiety rates 31% higher than average — even after controlling for socio-economic factors.

Support Resources

Tene Briut: 03-5162060 | Nitzан trauma support: 1201 | ERAN: 1201

📞 Immediate help: 1201