Harvard Study Links Traumatic Invalidation to Diaspora Jews

A new study released by Harvard-affiliated psychologists indicates that Diaspora Jews are experiencing a psychological condition termed “traumatic invalidation” in the wake of events surrounding October 7, 2023. This phenomenon, defined by symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and, in severe cases, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), stems from a perceived lack of support and acknowledgement of their trauma.

The research, conducted by Dr. Miri Bar-Halpern and her colleague Jackie Wolfman, highlights how many Jews outside of Israel have faced public hostility and exclusion since the attacks on that date. Jewish individuals report that their experiences have been dismissed, ignored, or even weaponized against them, compounding feelings of isolation and insecurity.

The study, published in The Journal of Human Behavior in the Social Environment in May 2025, gained particular resonance within the Canadian Jewish community. In response, a coalition of Canadian synagogues, mental health professionals, and trauma organizations brought Dr. Bar-Halpern to Canada for a speaking tour aimed at raising awareness and providing coping strategies.

Dr. Bar-Halpern, a clinical psychologist based in Boston, shared her insights during a recent episode of The CJN’s North Star podcast. She explained that her research was influenced by personal experiences and numerous accounts of Jewish individuals who feel unsafe and invalidated in their communities.

The term “traumatic invalidation” was first studied over a decade ago, primarily among victims of sexual assault who were told their experiences were their fault. The authors argue that this concept applies equally to the trauma faced by Jews, who encounter denial and blame amid ongoing global conflicts.

Jewish communities have reported increasingly hostile environments. For instance, incidents of public protests have included chants targeting Jewish students, and actions such as ripping down posters of Israeli hostages. These events reinforce the feeling of erasure and invalidation among community members.

Dr. Bar-Halpern emphasized that the collective trauma is exacerbated by societal rejection and the pervasive narrative that diminishes the significance of Jewish pain. “It’s a stunning mix of silence, denial, blame, gaslighting, and exclusion,” she stated. This environment has led some Jews to conceal their identities, avoid Jewish spaces, or refrain from seeking therapy due to fear of being invalidated.

The psychological impact of ongoing traumatic invalidation manifests in various ways. According to Dr. Bar-Halpern, affected individuals often exhibit hypervigilance and insecurity, potentially leading to long-term mental health issues. Children and young adults are particularly vulnerable, facing challenges in academic and social settings.

As part of her outreach, Dr. Bar-Halpern encourages community members to identify safe spaces and support networks, particularly in educational settings. She advocates for trauma-informed schools where all students, including those from Jewish backgrounds, feel secure and validated.

Dr. Bar-Halpern also discussed the need for a societal shift in acknowledging Jewish suffering without the immediate pushback of “whataboutism.” She highlighted the importance of recognizing the pain of Jewish individuals as separate from the broader political discourse, noting that such comparisons can further invalidate their experiences.

The discourse surrounding Israeli and Palestinian issues often complicates the narratives of trauma. Dr. Bar-Halpern posited that many people grapple with cognitive dissonance, seeking to rationalize their beliefs while simultaneously confronting the reality of violence and suffering on both sides. This complexity can lead to scapegoating and increased antisemitism.

Dr. Bar-Halpern’s findings underscore the necessity for open discussions about trauma and healing within the Jewish community. She emphasized that healing is not linear and involves recognizing ongoing pain while fostering resilience and growth.

As the Jewish community in Canada continues to navigate these challenging times, Dr. Bar-Halpern’s work aims to empower individuals to reclaim their narratives and foster a supportive environment. Through public talks and workshops, she hopes to bridge gaps between communities and promote understanding and empathy.

In conclusion, the concept of traumatic invalidation sheds light on the psychological struggles faced by many Diaspora Jews since October 7, 2023. As the community grapples with these challenges, fostering dialogue and support will be crucial in addressing both the emotional and social ramifications of this ongoing trauma.