Bedouin families in unrecognized villages in the trap of reality: Perspectives of risk and protection among parents and young children.

Abstract

The Bedouin population living in unrecognized villages (UVs) in the Naqab/Negev region constitutes an ethnic and cultural minority that represents the most disadvantaged sector of Israeli society across economic, social, and educational spheres. This article is based on two research projects conducted in the UVs, involving 46 Bedouin mothers and 38 children aged 4-5 years, focusing on their perspectives regarding risk and protection. The research aims to amplify the voices of individuals who are often unheard, shedding light on the lived realities of families amid ongoing political conflict. Using a qualitative, context-informed approach, the study highlights significant challenges faced by these families due to their marginalized status and reveals both differences and similarities in risk perceptions between mothers and children. Mothers provide insights into family dynamics, cultural expectations, and sociopolitical obstacles-such as the lack of essential services-that shape their views on risk and protection. In contrast, children share unique reflections based on immediate experiences-such as fears of the dark and the absence of safe areas-often lacking the broader contextual awareness present in adults. Both groups identified family and community support as important protective factors. However, mothers also highlighted spirituality, education, and technology, while children pointed to nature, pets, and their homes as meaningful coping mechanisms. Study results can be used to advocate for targeted policies and practical recommendations to address the unique needs of Bedouin families in UVs, emphasizing the importance of culturally sensitive interventions that consider historical, sociopolitical, and ecological contexts, ultimately informing more effective support strategies. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2025 APA, all rights reserved).