Abstract
The first aim of this study is to explore the relationships between home displacement—community resilience, and indication of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) following a collective trauma. Another aim is to examine the mediating effect of community resilience on the relationship between home displacement and indication of PTSD. Using a quantitative approach, a questionnaire assessing home displacement, community resilience, and indication of PTSD was administered to 2076 Israeli adults residing in an area experiencing active fighting. Consistent with the hypotheses, significant associations were found among home displacement, community resilience, and PTSD indication, with community resilience having a significant mediating effect. This study highlights the protective role of community resilience in mitigating adverse outcomes during crises, emphasizing its role as a mediator between home displacement and indication of PTSD in the context of severe security crisis.
Public Significance Statement
Individuals who were displaced from their homes during a prolonged security crisis were more likely to show an indication of PTSD and reported lower levels of community resilience compared to nondisplaced individuals. Lower community resilience was also associated with a higher likelihood of PTSD indication. These findings underscore the importance of strengthening community resources, particularly among displaced populations, to support mental health during large-scale emergencies.