ADMINISTRATIVE DETENTION AND ITS PSYCHOLOGICAL IMPACT ON THE DETAINEE AND THEIR FAMILY IN JENIN GOVERNORATE AS PERCEIVED BY THE FORMER DETAINEE AND THEIR FAMILY

Abstract

This study examined the nature of administrative detention and its psychological effects on Palestinian detainees and their families in Jenin Governorate in 2023. The study population consisted of 33 detainees; the sample included 21 current detainees (represented through interviews with their families) and 8 released detainees. The interview method was employed due to the exploratory nature of the topic and the relatively homogeneous cultural and educational background of participants. Findings revealed that detainees experience severe psychological distress, including chronic anxiety, depression, emotional exhaustion, and persistent fear, particularly regarding the indefinite renewal of detention orders without formal charges or trial. The detainees expressed deep concern for their children and families, compounded by isolation and the arbitrary denial of visitation rights. Many viewed their detention as a form of psychological punishment based on unverified or retaliatory intelligence.

Family members, particularly parents, reported continuous anxiety, fear, and emotional strain, especially during sentence renewals and during prison raids involving confiscation or destruction of detainees’ belongings. The study recommends exposing the illegality of administrative detention practices internationally and locally, and calls for comprehensive psychological and material support for detainees and their families.