Abstract
The Ultra-Orthodox community in Israel is characterized by close everyday contact and a strong sense of community. While the COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in global uncertainty, fear, and fatalities, this group was particularly affected by the pandemic. Accordingly, the current study examines whether subjective nearness-to-death was associated with increased COVID-19 concerns, and whether Israeli identity and sense of community moderate this association. Data were gathered from 255 Israeli Ultra-Orthodox Jews, and results yielded a significant link between subjective nearness-to-death and COVID-19 worries, moderated by both moderators. Results are discussed in line with terror management theory, and theoretical/practical implications are suggested.
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All authors contributed to the study conception and design. Data collection was performed by YT, material preparation by RM, and analyses by YSB. The first draft of the manuscript was written by YT, and all authors commented on previous versions of the manuscript. All authors read and approved the final manuscript.
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This study was performed in line with the principles of the Declaration of Helsinki. Approval was granted by the IRB of Ashkelon Academic College on July 16, 2020.
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Trachtingot, I., Maytles, R. & Bergman, Y.S. Subjective Nearness-to-Death and COVID-19 Worries Among Ultra-Orthodox Jews in Israel: The Moderating Role of Israeli Identity and Sense of Community. J Relig Health 63, 838–850 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10943-023-01992-4
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10943-023-01992-4