Background: Children and adolescents are frequently exploited as pawns in scenarios of political violence and armed conflict, with their vulnerability making them prime targets for abduction and hostage-taking. This study focused on the experiences of Israeli adolescents aged 12 to 18 who were released from captivity in Gaza, examining the impacts of such traumatic experiences on their well-being. Methods: In this qualitative study, we utilized content analysis to focus on firsthand testimonies from 11 adolescents released from captivity, as reported in the Hebrew-language press. The testimonies provide insight into the captives’ experiences, with a focus on the spatial dimensions of their captivity and subsequent adaptation. Results: Analysis revealed three primary themes: The dichotomy between internal and external spaces, highlighting the captives’ fragmentation; the dynamics of movement within captivity, stressing survival and adaptation strategies; and the transition from captivity to home, underscoring the complexities of reintegration into a safe space. These themes illustrate the profound psychological impacts of captivity, with an emphasis on the role of spatial perception in coping mechanisms. Conclusions: This study highlights the role of spatial perception in the experiences and psychological adaptation of adolescents released from captivity. It underscores the importance of tailored support and intervention strategies to facilitate their reintegration, enriching the broader discourse on the psychological resilience and vulnerabilities of adolescents in conflict zones.
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