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Research Project: Jews in Germany - Coping with Collective Trauma and Rising Antisemitism 

Projekt Overview
This study explores the experiences, perceptions, and coping strategies of Jewish individuals in Germany in the aftermath of the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack on Israel. Our research aimed to provide a comprehensive understanding of how Jews in Germany, with or without Israeli migration background, navigated the complex emotional landscape of collective trauma and rising antisemitism.

Key Objectives 

• Examine the immediate and ongoing impacts of the October 7 events on Jewish individuals in Germany
• Investigate changes in experiences of antisemitism and perceptions of societal responses
• Identify coping strategies and resilience mechanisms employed by Jewish individuals
• Explore the influence of these events on Jewish identity and community engagement
• Assess concerns and hopes for the future of Jewish life in Germany

Methodology
We conducted in-depth, semi-structured interviews with 18 Jewish individuals living in Germany, including both Israeli and non-Israeli backgrounds. Participants ranged in age from 23 to 68 years old and represented diverse socioeconomic backgrounds and levels of religious observance.

Key Findings

• Profound emotional disruption and trauma following the October 7 attacks
• Significant changes in social relationships, often leading to social withdrawal
• Increased community engagement and activism among Jewish individuals
• Heightened sense of insecurity and vigilance in expressing Jewish identity
• Complex coping strategies, including humor, community involvement, and selective avoidance

Downloads
For more detailed information about our research, please download the full report or the executive summary:
Download full report (PDF)
Download executive summary (PDF)
Download executive summary Hebrew (PDF)

Contact
For more information about this project, please contact:
Dr. Maor Shani
Developmental Psychology
Institute for Psychology
Osnabrück University
Email: maor.shani@uos.de
Tel.: +49 541 696-7743