Beyond Borders: How the Palestine-Israel Conflict Fuels Vicarious Trauma in Young Adults of Pakistan

Abstract

The rise of digital media has increased exposure to global conflicts, often leading to emotional distress. This study explores vicarious trauma among young adults exposed to conflict-related content on social media, focusing on the Israel-Palestinian crisis. Using reflexive thematic analysis of semi-structured focus groups, the research identifies four key themes. Participants expressed feelings of helplessness, guilt, and sadness, yet demonstrated emotional resourcefulness. Faith in divine justice provided strength, while social support through communal discussions offered validation. Resilience was evident in refraining from distressing content and regulating emotions to stay engaged without burnout. These findings highlight how digital media shapes emotional responses and coping mechanisms, emphasizing the need for psychological tools to support well-being while maintaining moral engagement. This study contributes to the understanding of indirect trauma in the digital age, with implications for mental health support in increasingly connected societies.