Abstract
Abstract
Background
Early childhood is a crucial time for language and communication development. It supports social, emotional, and cognitive development. In the West Bank, long term political unrest with limited mobility and persistent socioeconomic stress restricts social interaction, healthcare access, and education. This subjects kids to psychological stress that might hinder communication and cognitive development. Parents in this situation encounter significant structural and psychological obstacles. This rises the need to investigate parental perspectives on children's language development.
Methodology
The current study was a descriptive cross-sectional study that examined the effects of the ongoing conflict on the development of language and communication among children in the West Bank. The study was done by using a structured online questionnaire to collect information from parents of children between the ages of 2 and 12 years. The study participants were recruited from different settings within the West Bank. A total of 510 parents participated in the study. Data was collected over a period of three weeks during the academic year 2024–2025.
Results
A total of 510 parents in the West Bank took part in the study. Statistically significant associations were found for conflict exposure and children’s language, communication, and social interaction outcomes, with indirect exposure being more influential than direct exposure. Perceived impact was found to be higher for children with a normal developmental status, those in private or nursery schools, and those from urban or high-income families. Parental characteristics, such as older parental age, higher parental educational level, maternal employment, and unavailability of speech or psychological therapy, were also significant.
Conclusion
The results clearly show that the presence of conflict in the West Bank has a significant association with the disruption of children’s language development, as reported by their parents. It is essential to note that the level of the effect is not only dependent on the presence of conflict but also on the family and socioeconomic factors. The indirect effects of conflict could be a risk factor for communication problems in children. These results clearly indicate the need for speech and mental health services for children exposed to conflict.