ABSTRACT
Adolescents in conflict-affected areas are at greater risk of violence, which can have catastrophic effects across the life course. The literature on violence in Palestine mainly focuses on political violence, and adolescents exposed to violence, especially girls, are largely invisible. This chapter provides insights about violence among adolescents in Gaza, focusing on the role of gender norms in shaping violent experiences. It also contributes to the debate on how to protect bodily integrity in such a politically turbulent context. The chapter draws on mixed-methods research in 2016 and 2017 as part of the Gender and Adolescence: Global Evidence research programme, complemented by secondary analysis of available datasets.
Our analysis indicates that other than treating adolescents for physical injuries and providing psychosocial first aid during episodes of conflict, there is limited formal support available to adolescents who have experienced violence; moreover, a culture of silence normalises violence. The chapter discusses possible strategies for addressing violence in Gaza and similar settings.
