Social Support and Its Relationship to Life Satisfaction among Former Prisoners Released from Israeli Occupation Prisons in Nablus Governorate

Abstract

This study aimed to examine social support and its relationship to life satisfaction among former prisoners released from Israeli occupation prisons in Nablus Governorate. The study employed a descriptive correlational research design using a questionnaire as the primary data collection instrument. The study population consisted of all former prisoners released from Israeli occupation prisons in Nablus Governorate between (2021–2025) totaling (900) male and female former prisoners. A convenience sample of (270) former prisoners was selected. The study yielded several findings, most notably that the level of social support among former prisoners released from Israeli occupation prisons in Nablus Governorate was moderate. The results also indicated that the level of life satisfaction among this group was moderate. Furthermore, the study revealed a statistically significant positive correlation at the significance level (α ≤ 0.05) between social support and life satisfaction among former prisoners released from Israeli occupation prisons in Nablus Governorate. Based on these findings, the study recommended the development of integrated support programs that include financial and in-kind assistance, as well as vocational training opportunities for former prisoners, accompanied by continuous follow-up to ensure effective access to these programs and to promote their economic and social empowerment after release. The study also emphasized the importance of strengthening communication between former prisoners and social institutions and civil society organizations to facilitate access to legal, health, and psychological services. This can be achieved through the establishment of community support offices and awareness ampaigns addressing prisoners’ rights and ways to benefit from available services.