Harvard Study Reveals ‘Traumatic Invalidation’ Among Diaspora Jews

Diaspora Jews may be experiencing a psychological condition known as “traumatic invalidation,” according to a new study by psychologists affiliated with Harvard University. The research, published in The Journal of Human Behavior in the Social Environment in May 2025, highlights the emotional distress faced by Jewish communities abroad in the wake of the events on October 7, 2023.

The study’s authors, Dr. Miri Bar-Halpern and Jackie Wolfman, identified symptoms of anxiety, depression, and shame among Jewish individuals who feel their trauma has been ignored or even weaponized against them. This condition, which was first explored over a decade ago in relation to victims of sexual assault, has now been adapted to encapsulate the experiences of Jews in the Diaspora.

Increasingly, Jews around the world have reported public incidents of hostility, such as the removal of posters featuring Israeli hostages and derogatory chants targeting Jewish identities. These experiences contribute to feelings of isolation and distress, which the authors argue are symptomatic of the broader societal denial of their pain.

Dr. Bar-Halpern, a clinical psychologist based in Boston, is currently on a speaking tour in Canada, addressing the implications of these findings. She has been invited by a coalition of Canadian synagogues, medical professionals, and trauma organizations to discuss the psychological impact of recent events on Jewish communities.

During a recent podcast interview, she elaborated on the concept of traumatic invalidation, explaining that it encompasses a range of reactions from society, such as silence, denial, and blame. “It’s a stunning mix of gaslighting and exclusion,” she stated, emphasizing how these factors can exacerbate feelings of shame and anxiety among Diaspora Jews.

Dr. Bar-Halpern’s study resonates deeply within the Canadian Jewish community, particularly as incidents of anti-Semitism have surged since October 2023. Many individuals report feeling unsafe in public spaces, leading to a reluctance to express their Jewish identities openly. For some, this has resulted in a withdrawal from community engagement and even therapy, as they fear their emotional pain will not be validated.

The research has sparked discussions within the Jewish community, prompting local organizations to seek ways to support individuals grappling with these feelings. On the podcast, Dr. Bar-Halpern described various coping strategies, including the importance of finding supportive environments and establishing safe spaces for dialogue.

She noted that education plays a critical role in addressing these issues. Schools should adopt trauma-informed practices to ensure that all students feel safe and valued, she argued. “When schools fail to act, it can lead to a breakdown of trust and a sense of alienation within the community,” she explained.

The study also highlights the generational trauma that many Jews experience, particularly those descended from Holocaust survivors or other communities affected by historical oppression. Dr. Bar-Halpern pointed out that the psychological impact of ongoing invalidation can trigger responses that affect not only individuals but also their families and communities.

As the conversation around these issues continues, Dr. Bar-Halpern’s insights offer a pathway for healing. By recognizing and validating their experiences, communities can begin to address the emotional toll of traumatic invalidation.

In conclusion, the findings from this Harvard-affiliated research underline a pressing need for awareness and action. As Jewish communities navigate these challenges, fostering understanding and support may prove crucial in alleviating the psychological burden of traumatic invalidation.