Displaced Jewish Children During World War II

Abstract

Eleven people who survived World War II as Jewish children in Europe were interviewed to investigate (1) psychological resistance to emotional trauma in children, and (2) the effect on adult adjustment of a trauma experienced during the growth process. All survivors described experiences and reactions that were attempts to cope in active ways with feelings of total helpleasness during the war. As adults they continue to react to the effects of their earlier experiences by fighting helplessness and trying to integrate their feelings, thus continuing the process of active coping.