Preparedness, Ideology, and Subsequent Distress: Examining a Case of Forced Relocation

Abstract

The current study investigated the relationships between levels and modes of preparedness for relocation, ideology, and subsequent posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). A sample of 269 relocated residents from Gush Katif completed questionnaires examining their previous life stressors, preparation prior to their relocation, level of ideology, and current level of PTSD. Contrary to expectations, the findings showed a negative correlation between instrumental preparedness and PTSD, which suppressed the positive association between ideology and PTSD. These findings suggest that some modes of preparedness may lead to better psychological readjustment, while others may be irrelevant or even harmful when they contradict one's ideology. Further research on the unique and combined role of preparedness and ideology in coping with stressful events is needed.

Notes

*p < .05; **p < .01.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Rivka Tuval-Mashiach

Rivka Tuval-Mashiach is a senior lecturer in the Department of Psychology, and the Gender Program at Bar Illan University, Ramat Gan, Israel. Her specializations are trauma, PTSD, coping processes, resilience, personal growth and meaningfulness proceeding trauma.

Rachel Dekel

Rachel Dekel is an associate professor in the School of Social-Work at Bar-Ilan University, Ramat-Gan, Israel. In the last decade, she has been involved with many research projects that have examined various facets of human coping with extreme stress.