Living through War: Experiences of Evacuation and Displacement Among at-Risk Young Adults

Background and Purpose:
Emerging adulthood is a developmental stage characterized by identity exploration, increasing independence, and transitions in education, employment, and relationships. Wartime disrupts these processes, creating uncertainty and heightened vulnerability. Forced evacuation and displacement during war may interrupt life trajectories and expose young adults to trauma. For at-risk young adults—such as those with histories of neglect, poverty, or involvement in public care—the concept of “home” is already unstable. Being uprooted during war may further destabilize their lives, intensify psychological distress, and undermine pathways toward independence. While research on refugees and migration has framed displacement as a marker of extreme vulnerability, limited attention has been given to evacuation experiences during war, particularly among at-risk young adults.

The aim of this study was to explore the lived experiences of at-risk young adults during evacuation and displacement, focusing on the challenges they faced and their unique needs in the context of war.

Methods:
This qualitative study draws on semi-structured interviews with 19 at-risk young adults evacuated from conflict zones in southern and northern Israel following the war that began on October 7, 2023. Interviews were conducted online and analyzed using thematic analysis following Braun and Clarke (2006).

Results:
Four central themes emerged. First, participants described trauma and loss of security, including pervasive fear and a collapse of basic assumptions about safety. Second, uncertainty and instability were reflected in disruptions to education, employment, and future plans, leaving many feeling that their lives were “on hold.” Third, participants reported experiences of social isolation, alienation, and increased dependence due to reliance on temporary housing and financial support. Finally, alongside these challenges, some participants identified positive aspects of displacement, including strengthened relationships, exposure to new environments, and, in some cases, improved personal or financial circumstances.

Conclusions and Implications:
This study highlights the complex impact of wartime evacuation on at-risk young adults, which at times sets them back after achieving key developmental milestones and disrupts their pathways toward independence. Beyond material disruptions, participants experienced diminished autonomy, weakened social ties, and a loss of stability and belonging, further exacerbating pre-existing vulnerabilities during emerging adulthood. At the same time, expressions of resilience and opportunities for growth also emerged.

These findings may help bridge the existing gap in knowledge regarding the experiences of at-risk young adults during internal displacement. Understanding their complex experiences may inform policy by supporting the development of appropriate immediate and long-term responses and services, enabling them to recover and continue along their life paths. In terms of practice, these findings may help professionals plan appropriate support for these young people based on a holistic understanding of their needs, thereby promoting independent daily living and future achievements.