Elder abuse in Israel

Elder abuse is a little understood and almost unstudied social problem in Israel. This study presents the results of the first empirical study of the attitudes of Israelis regarding the problem. Respondents rated the severity of short vignettes describing abuse of the elderly. Most severe ratings are given to the abuse and neglect of the elderly by institutions that care for the aged. Intrafamilial abuse is rated somewhat less severely. Physical abuse is consistently rated more severely than psychological abuse and neglect or abuse of rights and property. Intrafamilial neglect is rated more severely than intrafamilial abuse. Demographic differences are analyzed. The findings show a relative tolerance for and acceptance of acts of violence in the family if they occur within the context of the caring relationship.