"Confusion Between the Language of Ḥeseḏ and the Language of Passion: Misidentification of Sexual Abuse among Ultra-Orthodox Jewish Women”, Dr. Nehama HaCohen, HBI Helen Gartner Hammer Scholar in Residence

HBI Seminar Series

Dr. Nehama HaCohen, Achva Academic College, HBI Helen Gartner Hammer Scholar in Residence

Nehama HaCohen's talk explored the intersection of language, cultural norms, and psychological frameworks within Ultra-Orthodox Jewish communities and addressed the unique challenges in identifying and addressing cases of sexual abuse, where the language of ḥeseḏ (kindness) and the language of passion are often conflated. Through her research, HaCohen examines how this misidentification can hinder appropriate responses and explore culturally sensitive approaches to therapy and intervention.

Dr. HaCohen is a clinical psychologist specializing in the treatment of sexual trauma and culturally sensitive psychotherapy. She is a faculty member at Achva Academic College in Israel where she leads a research lab focused on multicultural identities. HaCohen also lectures in the psychology program at Bar-Ilan University.