Motivations for revenge and retaliation after divorce in Palestine

In a society where family and social values are deeply intertwined, divorce is not only a legal matter but also a significant social event, often resulting in open conflicts and retaliatory actions. Previous research has highlighted the lack of comprehensive studies on post-divorce dynamics in Palestine, making this investigation crucial for understanding the nuanced factors behind retaliatory behaviors. This study explores the dynamics of post-divorce retaliatory behaviors in Palestinian society, focusing on the cultural, social, and legal factors that contribute to these behaviors. Through a qualitative exploratory design, structured interviews were conducted with a purposive sample including twelve judges, lawyers, religious leaders, and divorced individuals. Key findings indicate that all ten participants believed post-divorce retaliatory actions are common in Palestine, particularly in custody and financial disputes. Both male and female divorcees use financial or legal tactics, while females often experience social retaliation. The presence of children significantly escalates retaliatory behavior.