“I'm all there for her”: Perspectives of Arab mothers in Israel on mother–daughter relationships in young adulthood

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Authors: Haneen Elias
Cited by: 0
References: 48

Abstract

Abstract Objective This study aimed to explore how Arab mothers in Israel perceive their intergenerational relationships with young adult daughters within the sociocultural context of Arab society and their intersecting marginalized positions as women and ethnic minority members. Background Intergenerational relationships among ethnic minorities are shaped by cultural, social, and religious contexts. This study is among the first to highlight Arab mothers' voices in Israel, expanding the largely Western‐focused literature. It draws on intergenerational solidarity and intersectional marginality frameworks. Method Using a constructivist grounded theory approach, in‐depth interviews were conducted with 27 Arab mothers of young adult daughters recruited through social media and snowball sampling. Results Two main themes emerged: (a) self‐perceptions of motherhood: responsibility for educational and religious values and allowing decision‐making space; and (b) collaborative dialogue: emotional support, mutual understanding, and negotiation of disagreement. Conclusion Mother–daughter relations in Arab society reflect cultural and religious values that stress achievement and family reputation. Mothers combine supervisory and supportive roles, blending control with emotional closeness, whereas solidarity emerges within marginality. Implications Practitioners should acknowledge mothers' complex roles balancing tradition, autonomy, and faith. Culturally sensitive interventions can promote empowerment, emotional well‐being, and agency within these intergenerational contexts.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Intergenerational Family Dynamics and Caregiving Family Dynamics and Relationships Psychosocial Factors Impacting Youth

Publication details

Journal / source
Family Relations
Volume
75
Issue
3
Pages
1618–1635
Publication date
23 February 2026
Language
EN