Abstract:
This comprehensive presentation delves into the intricate tapestry of antisemitism, spanning historical, biblical, clinical, and psychosocial dimensions, offering critical insights for mental health professionals. Delving into the origins of antisemitism and its biblical references, the session elucidates how these historical narratives have shaped contemporary attitudes and confrontations towards Jewish individuals and communities.
Focusing on the clinical realm, the presentation unpacks the subjective repercussions of direct verbal and physical assaults, exploring how such exposures impact individuals' psychological functioning. Concurrently, it navigates the psychosocial landscape, examining how global events and media portrayals influence the safety, security, and self-image of Jewish communities across various domains, including campuses, workplaces, streets, and cyberspace.
Drawing from current studies and scholarly research, attendees will gain a nuanced understanding of the clinical manifestations of antisemitism and its broader societal implications. A synthesis of theoretical frameworks and empirical data will illuminate the complex nature of Jew-hatred, empowering participants with tools for detection, intervention, and management within clinical settings.
Moreover, the presentation endeavors to foster personal awareness among clinicians regarding the influence of their own attitudes shaped by antisemitic experiences, equipping them with strategies for self-reflection and self-management. Through a synthesis of recent literature and diagnostic data, participants will cultivate the necessary skills to address the needs of clients or patients while navigating their own reactions to pervasive environmental stresses.
By exploring recent scholarly literature and referencing empirical studies, this presentation aims to provide mental health professionals with a comprehensive understanding of the historical, biblical, clinical, and psychosocial dimensions of antisemitism, enabling them to navigate its complexities with sensitivity, competence, and ethical awareness.
Rabbi Dr. Dovid is a forensic and clinical psychologist, a rabbi and dayan, and an author and professor. He is the director of Crisis and Trauma Services for Chai Lifeline International. Rabbi Berel Wein is an American-born Rabbinic scholar, lecturer and writer. He authored several books, in both Hebrew and English, concerning Jewish history and popularized the subject through more than 1,000 audio tapes, newspaper articles and international lectures. His soon-to-be-published book is titled “History of Antisemitism.”
Dr. David Fox is a forensic & clinical psychologist, graduate school professor and author. His areas of specialization include trauma, cross-cultural and religious aspects of mental health, treatment and diagnosis.