Scientific Bulletin of Uzhhorod National University. Series: Psychology

PSYCHOLOGICAL WELL-BEING OF MEDICAL STUDENTS DURING THEIR PROFESSIONAL EDUCATION

S. P. Zhemaniuk — 2025-07-02

The article presents the results of an empirical study on the psychological well-being of students enrolled in the higher medical education institution in Ukraine under distance learning conditions. The work aimed to assess the level and structural characteristics of psychological well-being among students, considering their academic year and gender. The theoretical framework of the research was based on C. Ryff’s model of psychological well-being, implemented through an 84-item scale adapted for the Ukrainian population. The sample included second to fifth-year students from a state medical university. Data were collected online, and statistical analysis was performed using Stata 15 software, including gender and year-based comparisons, and an integral well-being index was calculated. The results revealed a wave-like dynamic of psychological well-being throughout the educational cycle: the highest scores were observed among students in the earlier years, while the third year emerged as a critical period marked by a decline across most components. The highest scores were recorded on the «Personal Growth» and «Purpose in Life» scales, indicating students’ internal resources despite adverse external conditions. In contrast, the lowest scores were observed on the «Self-Acceptance» dimension, particularly among males, with statistically significant differences across academic years. Although some improvement was observed in the senior years, the initial levels of well-being were not fully regained. Future research should focus on psychological well-being determinants in blended learning environments, the dynamics of emotional functioning, the role of coping strategies and social support during wartime, and the development of interventions to prevent emotional exhaustion.

METHODOLOGICAL CONSTRUCTS OF THE COMPARATIVE MODEL OF PSYCHOTHERAPEUTIC ASSISTANCE TO THE FAMILY

S. M. Kalishchuk — 2025-07-02

The article substantiates the necessity of a comparative, systematic and comparative methodology for integrating a set of scientifically proven and practically tested approaches to the provision of psychotherapeutic care in family therapy. The author traces the connection between psychotherapeutic concepts and their methods at the level of theoretical substantiation, borrowing ideas, in particular between individual psychology and transactional analysis; logotherapy and existential analysis; psychodrama and Gestalt therapy; psychosynthesis and Gestalt therapy; humanistic and existential psychology; existential and transpersonal psychology; body dynamics and transpersonal psychology; neuro-linguistic programming and systemic family therapy; Gestalt therapy and systemic family therapy. The issue of creating mental maps of psychological therapeutic systems is revealed. The relevance of the inter-paradigmatic convergence of psychological psychotherapeutic systems in contrast to the previous polar and competitive period of their origin is stated. The comparative perspective of the analysis of the multidimensional plane of psychotherapeutic care in family therapy is outlined with the substantiation of seven methodological approaches: psychotechnical; ontological; systemic; transtheoretical existential-systemic; structural; spectral; biographical-existential. The key dichotomous constructs that define each of the methodological approaches and describe the elements of analysis in the process of providing psychological assistance to a family are revealed. These constructs include the following: protection – desire; conscious – unconscious; boundaries – context; challenges – realism; dynamics – complexity; space – time. It is proved that the comparative methodology introduces specific-oriented outlines into family psychotherapy and epistemologically covers fundamentally different levels of the client’s inner world, which as a result creates many special (paradigmatic) imprints of clients’ requests from psychologists of different schools.

PROBLEMS OF PSYCHOLOGICAL COUNSELING AND PSYCHOTHERAPY AS PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSISTANCE

H. V. Kalmykov — 2025-07-02

The article is devoted to highlighting the problems and difficulties that psychologists encounter when providing psychological assistance to clients. Article’s purpose is to describe modern trends in psychological counseling and psychotherapy as branches of psychological science and practice. The article notes that a pressing problem in psychological counseling and psychotherapy is the client’s negative attitude towards the psychologist at the beginning of the sessions, distrust of him or the direction of his work. All these phenomena in the psychodynamic tradition are defined by one term – “resistance”. Attention is focused on the fact that the source of resistance can also be the psychologist. On the other hand, the reaction of resistance often arises in response to the distorted perception of the client by the consultant. Such distortions lead to the fact that the emphasis shifts from the client’s actual need to the psychologist, which is actualized using the projection mechanism. The article describes various forms of resistance and mechanisms that protect the client from potential losses or harm: client’s silence, topic avoidance, rigidity, action, etc.; the views of various foreign researchers are represented, in particular: Z. Freud, V. Techke, H. Spotnitz, R. Greenson, R. Likha, A. Beck, J. Bujenthal, S. Rogers, E. Johnson, etc. – on the problem of resistance. It is also noted that most psychotherapists and consulting psychologists agree that it is the quality of the psycho consulting and psychotherapeutic alliance that determines the effectiveness and efficiency of assistance. Therefore, in psychological counseling and psychotherapy, interpersonal (communicative, interactive and socio-perceptive) interaction between the psychologist and the client occupies a central place. Of course, the psychologist is primarily responsible for establishing contact. That is why several requirements are imposed on his education and personal characteristics.

DEFENSE MECHANISMS AND SELF-DECEPTION: THE RELATIONSHIP AND ROLE IN ADAPTATION TO STRESSFUL SITUATIONS

O. Yu. Kosianova — 2025-07-02

The article is devoted to a theoretical and empirical analysis of the relationship between psychological defense mechanisms and self-deception, and the determination of their role in personality adaptation to stressful situations. The relevance of this problem is due to the rising stress levels in modern society and the need for effective psychological means to maintain individual resilience. The theoretical section examines the evolution of the concept of psychological defense from classical psychoanalytic concepts to modern approaches. It is shown that defense mechanisms operate unconsciously, distorting reality to reduce anxiety, essentially acting as a form of self–deception. Self–deception is interpreted as an unconscious cognitive distortion aimed at mitigating traumatic experiences and preserving a positive self– concept. The dual role of these phenomena in adaptation is highlighted: on the one hand, they serve as a buffer against stress and help maintain emotional balance; on the other hand, excessive distortion of reality can lead to maladaptation. In the empirical study (sample: 54 young adults), standardized methods were used: the Holmes–Rahe Life Stress Scale, Spielberger’s Anxiety Inventory, a self–deception questionnaire, and the Defense Style Questionnaire (DSQ). It was found that most respondents are characterized by moderate levels of stress and anxiety and a predominance of mature defense mechanisms combined with low–moderate self–deception. At the same time, higher anxiety correlates with increased self–deception and activation of immature defenses, indicating a maladaptive nature of such responses. Self–deception showed the strongest association with primitive defenses, playing a compensatory role when adaptive coping strategies are lacking. It is concluded that a balance between the protective function and realistic awareness of the situation is necessary as a condition for effective adaptation to stress.

EMOTIONS AND EMOTIONAL STATES OF MILITARY SERVANTS: DIFFERENCES AND CLASSIFICATION

S. O. Lezhenko — 2025-07-02

The article is devoted to revealing the issue of basic fundamental emotions, their division into various emotional phenomena that perform various functions in the life of military personnel. The article notes that in order to effectively measure the emotions and emotional states of military personnel and provide them with timely psychological assistance, it is necessary to understand the spectrum of their emotions, to understand the peculiarities of those emotional processes that occur in their emotional sphere during service, especially, during and after military operations. It is noted that emotions are that comprehensive phenomenon, that permeates itself all phenomena and spheres of the psyche, deeply penetrating their nature and structure and ensuring the state and level of their intensity functioning and manifestation. It is emphasized that one of the main features of emotions, as a mental phenomenon, is its ability to reflect, that is encode information, coming from the surrounding reality into the subjective attribute of the subject of emotions, and emotions reflect not objects and phenomena as such, but their significance. The reflection of the significance of objects and phenomena is the characteristic of the emotional sphere that distinguishes it from other mental phenomena. The features of the emotional state of military personnel are also represented. The classification of the forms of emotional states is presented: emotional tone, mood, emotions, effect, stress, frustration, passion, higher feelings. A characteristic of each of the military personnel’s emotional states is given. Combat operations, in addition to physical exertion, also impose a great emotional and psychological load on military servicemen. They may experience emotional burnout syndrome as a response to emotional overstrain, which manifests itself in the form of physical and mental exhaustion. This syndrome can become a psychological defense mechanism in the form of partial or complete shutdown of emotions in response to traumatic influences.

THE IMPACT OF ANXIETY ON STUDENTS’ ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE

S. O. Mashchak — 2025-07-02

The article provides a theoretical analysis of the problem of the influence of anxiety on the academic performance of students of a technological college and presents the results of an empirical study. It was determined that the academic performance of students is closely correlated with the level of anxiety of students of a technological college. In particular, in the realities of military operations, loud alarms, explosions, unstable economic situation, the feeling of fear and anxiety increases, the psyche of young people is traumatized. These negative trends are amplified in first-year students and affect the perception, attention, memorization of educational material, intellectual styles of cognitive activity. Іt has been established that anxiety is one of the forms of manifestation of the emotional state of students. It accompanies all aspects of the life of young people – communication, learning, self-knowledge and personal achievements. Depending on whether the level of manifestation of anxiety is high or low, its impact on personal achievements and academic success of students is both positive and negative. Its dual impact on the unstable psyche of students affects the manifestations of working capacity, educational and social activity, self-esteem. If anxiety has a moderate manifestation, it stimulates responsibility, concentration and motivation to study. A high level of anxiety leads to a decrease in cognitive activity, difficulties in completing educational tasks and a decrease in academic success. The results of an empirical study conducted on the basis of the technological college «Interregional Higher Professional School of Automobile Transport and Construction MVPU ATB» are presented. The study involved 80 students of different courses, the age of the subjects was from 15 to 17 years. The applied diagnostic tools of the empirical study are the analysis of psychological sources regarding the problems of anxiety and student success, generalization, Spielberger-Khanin anxiety scale, Beck anxiety scale (BAI), Taylor’s «Anxiety Scale» technique (V. G. Norikadze); descriptive, correlation analysis. The conclusions are formulated that anxiety reduces the mental performance of students of a technological college, contributes to the development of social isolation, deterioration of cognitive activity, and complete abandonment of studies.

THEORETICAL ASPECTS OF RESEARCHING EMOTIONAL BURNOUT OF SERVICE WORKERS

S. O. Mashchak — 2025-07-02

The article presents a theoretical and empirical analysis of the problem of emotional burnout of service sector workers. It is stated that the service sector is a set of industries that are engaged in the implementation of intangible products. Services are a unique product, since they rarely have a tangible nature and their quality depends on the personality of the person providing them. This area is more labor-intensive compared to others, and the performance of professional tasks requires not only technical skills, but also emotional involvement. Triggers in service workers are often repeated and cause emotional burnout or a state of physiological, sensory and cognitive exhaustion in situations of prolonged emotional stress. Any activity in the service sector is a continuous stress and exhaustion. Service workers are often in direct interaction, communication with customers. This requires the skills of possessing a high level of emotional response, but also puts them at risk of emotional burnout. Emotional burnout develops in three directions: psychophysical, socio-psychological, behavioral. It has been established that the behavioral sphere of manifestation of symptoms of emotional burnout is amenable to research and analysis even through observation. The article presents the main results of an empirical study using various methods: “Diagnosis of Professional Burnout” by K. Maslach, S. Jackson adapted by N. Vodopyanova, “Perceived Stress Scale (PSS)” by Sh. Cohen, “Methodology for Diagnosing the Level of Emotional Burnout” by V. Boyko), author’s questionnaire. The sample of service sector workers studied is 64 respondents, of whom 32 are female and 32 are male, aged 17 to 50 years from various service sectors. Conclusions are formulated regarding the results of an empirical study of the problem of emotional burnout among service sector workers.

STRESS, COPING STRATEGIES AND RESILIENCE IN DIFFERENT LIFE PERIODS: PSYCHOLOGICAL DYNAMICS OF IDEAS ABOUT AGE ADAPTATION

A. O. Parasiei-Hocher — 2025-07-02

This study investigates the psychological dynamics of stress, coping strategies, and resilience across different stages of adulthood. The primary objective was to identify how stress levels, methods of coping, and resilience vary according to age. Empirical data were collected from participants divided into three age groups: 25–34 (young adults), 35–45 (middleaged adults), and 46–55 (older middle-aged adults). The findings show that the highest stress levels were reported in the 35–45 age group, likely due to heightened social responsibilities, work-family balance challenges, and professional demands. In contrast, younger participants showed lower stress levels and greater emotional flexibility, while older adults displayed the highest resilience scores, attributed to accumulated life experience and established coping mechanisms. The study also highlights that coping strategies differ significantly by age. Younger adults were more inclined to use emotion-focused coping, such as seeking social support or avoidance. Middle-aged participants favored problem-focused strategies, actively seeking solutions to stressors. Older respondents relied more on acceptance and cognitive reappraisal. These variations suggest that adaptive responses to crises are shaped not only by situational factors but also by agerelated psychological resources and social roles. The findings underscore the importance of developing age-sensitive psychological support programs, as the effectiveness of stress management and adaptation varies substantially across the life span. The study also points to the psychological vulnerability of participants, particularly in terms of anxiety and frustration, while also highlighting a general tendency toward emotional restraint and behavioral rigidity in the face of adversity.

KEY IDEAS OF ALFRED ADLER’S THEORY IN THE CONDITIONS OF CONTEMPORARY TIME

M. V. Khyzhniak — 2025-07-02

This article explores the key concepts of Alfred Adler’s individual psychology through the lens of modern sociopsychological realities, particularly the context of war. Central notions of the analysis include the inferiority complex, striving for superiority, social interest, fictional finalism, lifestyle, and the creative power of the self. Special attention is given to the biographical and historical context of Adler’s theoretical development, especially his childhood and experience as a military doctor in World War I. These influences contributed to his holistic model of personality as an active creator of one’s own life, responsible for adapting to society and choosing a lifestyle. By analyzing Adler’s ideas in the light of the war in Ukraine, the article interprets Russian aggression as a manifestation of collective compensation for a deep-rooted historical inferiority complex. Ideas of “greatness”, “imperial revival,” and “missionism” are considered fictional finalisms masking fear, identity loss, and social frustration. In contrast, Ukrainian society is presented as an example of mature compensation based on high levels of social interest, solidarity, responsibility, and service. This approach highlights the expression of the creative power of the self in Ukrainians’ response to wartime trauma – the capacity to transform suffering into meaning and weakness into strength. The article underscores the humanistic potential of Adler’s theory for understanding not only individual but also collective psychology in the context of war, aggression, and trauma. The Adlerian model may serve as an effective tool in crisis psychology, trauma therapy, the development of civic consciousness, and the fostering of social responsibility. Viewing war as a neurotic compensation of the inferiority complex, as well as constructive adaptation through social interest, opens new perspectives for applying classical psychological theory in the modern context.

CONCEPTUALIZATION OF AWARENESS AS A PSYCHOLOGICAL CONSTRUCT IN THE SYSTEM OF SANOGENIC THINKING

Kh. B. Tsomyk — 2025-07-02

The article conducted a theoretical study of the conceptualization of mindfulness as a psychological construct in the system of sanogenic thinking. The relevance of the topic is due to the growth of psychological difficulties in modern society, such as stress, anxiety and emotional burnout, which require effective means of supporting mental health. Mindfulness was considered as the ability to be attentive to current experience without evaluation, which contributes to a better understanding of emotions, thoughts and behavior. Sanogenic thinking, in turn, acted as an adaptive type of thinking aimed at preserving and strengthening mental health. The aim of the article was a theoretical analysis of mindfulness as a construct of sanogenic thinking. To achieve this, modern research on mindfulness and sanogenic thinking was analyzed, various positions of scientists regarding these phenomena, their definition and structure were considered, the functions and nature of mindfulness were investigated, and its relationship with sanogenic thinking was traced. The article emphasized the effectiveness of mindfulness practices, in particular the MBSR (Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction) program, which demonstrates a positive effect on reducing stress, anxiety, and depression, since neurobiological studies confirm that meditation, as the basis of mindfulness, changes brain activity, contributing to emotional stability. Ukrainian studies were also reviewed, confirming the usefulness of mindfulness practices for increasing stress resistance and emotional selfregulation. Sanogenic thinking is presented as a process that includes cognitive reconstruction, emotional regulation, and reflection. It helps reduce anxiety, develop adaptive response strategies, and improve psychological well-being. Mindfulness is a key component of sanogenic thinking, providing the ability to non-judgmental perception of experience, self-observation, and emotional regulation. The article contributes to a deeper understanding of the role of mindfulness in maintaining the mental health of the individual and its adaptation to life challenges, which is important in the structure of sanogenic thinking.

PSYCHOLOGICAL BARRIERS TO THE COMMERCIALIZATION OF MEDICAL INNOVATIONS: THE CONFLICT BETWEEN AUTHORIAL IDENTITY AND PATENT PRACTICE

I. S. Druzhkova — 2025-07-02

The article explores the psychological barriers that arise in the process of commercializing medical innovations, particularly in the context of the conflict between a researcher’s authorial identity and the requirements of patent practice. The authors analyze mechanisms of internal resistance that emerge during the transformation of a scientific result into an object of intellectual property, when the researcher is faced with the need to adapt to legal and market-oriented frameworks. Particular attention is paid to emotional, cognitive, and motivational factors influencing the scientist’s willingness to relinquish the autonomy of ideas, reframe their identity as a free researcher, and accept the standardized logic of patenting or rights transfer. Typical patterns of identification with one’s innovation are revealed, generating dissonance between the perception of science as a public good and the commercial imperatives of innovation systems. The role of academic culture, leadership style in research institutions, and the presence of psychological support systems in overcoming resistance are examined. The authors propose a model of psychological support for innovators that includes not only legal awareness, but also targeted emotional assistance, identity reframing, and reduction of cognitive dissonance. The importance of an interdisciplinary approach is emphasized, combining psychology, intellectual property law, research ethics, and innovation management in healthcare. Special attention is given to the creation of a safe communicative environment where scientists can openly express doubts and discuss value conflicts. Such an environment not only facilitates successful innovation implementation but also helps preserve academic motivation and personal integrity. The findings may be applied in technology transfer centers, early-career researcher training, and in developing motivational strategies for innovation within medical higher education institutions.

PERSON-GROUP FIT: A LITERATURE REVIEW FROM 1990 TO 2024

R. M. Chaika — 2025-07-02

Person–group fit describes the extent to which an employee’s values, competencies, and behavioral norms align with the micro-culture of the team and is increasingly viewed as a critical driver of effectiveness in today’s hybrid organizations. Yet a comprehensive synthesis of the construct’s conceptual evolution, measurement approaches, and empirical evidence has been lacking. This study addresses that gap through a literature review covering the period from 1990 to 2024. We filtered 742 records from Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar; 32 peer-reviewed empirical articles met the criteria of operationalizing person-group fit separately and assessing at least one individual or group outcome. Publication trends show exponential growth in interest, from 144 mentions in 1990 to 3,170 in 2023, mirroring organizations’ shift toward project-based and remote teams. Value congruence, relational demography, and leadership style emerge as primary antecedents of person-group fit, while job satisfaction, engagement, creativity, and reduced turnover are the most consistent outcomes. The strength of these relationships depends on psychological safety, social cohesion, knowledge sharing, national culture, and the team’s developmental stage. Research on small and medium-sized enterprises, start-ups, and virtual teams remains fragmentary, and the variety of person-group fit metrics complicates knowledge accumulation. Practical recommendations include combining value-based screening in recruitment with planned competency supplementation and continuous monitoring of psychological safety. Future studies should prioritize longitudinal multilevel designs, measurement standardization, and examinations of person-group fit in predominantly online or hybrid teams, as well as in low-resource cultural settings where hierarchy, collectivism, and leadership norms may differ markedly from Western corporate contexts.

PSYCHOLOGICAL FOUNDATIONS OF BEHAVIORAL ECONOMICS AND ITS ROLE IN BUSINESS

O. V. Cherniakova — 2025-07-02

The article presents a comprehensive theoretical and methodological analysis of the psychological foundations of behavioral economics as an interdisciplinary research program that integrates economic, psychological, cognitive, and neuroscientific approaches to explaining individual economic behavior under real-world conditions. The study systematizes and critically interprets current scholarly positions regarding the conceptual framework of behavioral economics, particularly the categories of «bounded rationality», «cognitive bias», «affective decision», and «social attitudes», which emerge as key concepts in contemporary economic-psychological discourse for analyzing decision-making under uncertainty. Theoretical origins of behavioral economics are outlined in the context of a critique of the neoclassical paradigm and the growing role of interdisciplinary approaches within the humanities. It is substantiated that behavioral economics serves not only as an alternative to classical economic models but also as an independent conceptual platform for understanding economic action based on a multilevel analysis of psychological determinants. Special attention is given to the practical significance of behavioral economics in business, including project management, marketing activities, strategic planning, and the development of competitive models of entrepreneurial behavior. The article demonstrates that the application of behavioral approaches allows for the inclusion of real decision-making mechanisms of economic agents, thus enhancing the adaptability of business strategies to current market challenges. The article also substantiates the prospects for further research aimed at specifying the psychological toolkit of behavioral economics, particularly by considering neurocognitive and emotional determinants. The material presented is of value to scholars, analysts, and practitioners working at the intersection of economics, psychology, and management.

ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF INTELLECTUALITY AS A FACTOR OF SUCCESSFUL EDUCATIONAL ACTIVITIES OF SENIOR GRADE STUDENTS

O. S. Adamova — 2025-07-02

The article analyzes the issues of intelligence development as a factor in the successful academic activity of high school students. It is concluded that the following series of concepts can be distinguished that characterize the intelligence and motivational orientation of the personality of high school students: firstly, intelligence in psychology is considered as the ability to carry out the process of cognition and to effectively solve problems, in particular when mastering a new range of life tasks (intelligence is understood as a certain level of development of the mental activity of the individual, which provides the opportunity to acquire all new knowledge and effectively use it in the course of life); secondly, the motivational sphere is laid at an early age and develops throughout life (the motivational sphere of the personality is a complex structural formation, the psychological mechanism of which is determined by the nature of the system of psychological conditions and means used); thirdly, the orientation, motivation for acquiring knowledge, desire and aspiration for learning depend on the student’s mental abilities, which allow him to understand new material, attention, and the development of the volitional sphere; Fourth, high school students with high and above-average intellectual abilities demonstrate the ability to identify, contemplate, or consider all possible combinations of various signs, events, or phenomena in the process of solving a problem; Fifth, most students have more developed humanistic abilities, which is characterized by the ability to skillfully operate with language, understand and use precise and specific expressions of verbal meanings, competently express their thoughts, and a tendency to theoretical, inductive thinking. It is noted that performance assessments that encourage higher-order thinking, evaluation, reasoning, and deep understanding are in themselves tools for learning. In addition to knowledge, assessment develops students’ metacognitive and cognitive skills, such as planning, organization, and other aspects of executive functioning; resilience and perseverance in confronting challenges.

PSYCHOLOGY OF YOUTH FINANCIAL BEHAVIOR: THE ROLE OF SELF-ESTEEM AND SOCIAL EXPECTATIONS AND CROSS-CULTURAL ASPECTS

A. V. Kolli-Shamne — 2025-07-02

The article presents a theoretical analysis of the psychological factors that shape young people’s financial behavior, with a particular focus on the role of self-esteem as an internal resource of personal regulation and social expectations as an external source of normative pressure. The study also includes an analysis of cross-cultural factors affecting youth financial behavior. Based on a review of contemporary scientific sources, it is argued that financial behavior among youth is formed through the constant interplay of individual, social, and cultural influences. In particular, it is demonstrated that low self-esteem often correlates with heightened sensitivity to social influence, a desire for recognition through conspicuous consumption, and a tendency toward impulsive financial decisions. Conversely, high self-esteem provides a basis for critical evaluation of consumer impulses, emotional regulation, and the adoption of balanced and strategically grounded financial decisions. Social expectations, transmitted through family guidance, media content, and cultural models of success, significantly influence how young people perceive financial achievement and which consumer strategies they choose. Through mechanisms of social comparison and identification, young individuals often adjust their behavior to conditional standards that may not align with their actual resources or values. The article emphasizes that research on the psychological determinants of financial behavior must account not only for individual-personal and social factors but also for the specific cultural context in which the personality develops and functions. The importance of integrating psychological support into financial education programs aimed at fostering financial literacy, emotional resilience, and self-reflection skills is also underscored. The article substantiates the need for further interdisciplinary research to deepen the understanding of the psychological nature of young people’s financial decisions in the face of social pressure and informational oversaturation.

STUDENTS BULLYINGS: SUBJECTS PERSONOLOGY

V. M. Polishchuk — 2025-07-02

It was clarified that the phenomenology of «students bullying» is poorly studied (in particular, due to its «inconvenient» content for the public discussion). Another author’s theoretical and empirical attempt was made to draw public attention to the real professional status of the higher education teachers, rather than the imaginary, often illusory one, in order to actualise the state significance of their personal and professional security for their own life and the security of the civil society (based on the results of the historical and psychological analysis of the educational and professional system «teacher– student»). It was stated that 1) the psychological patterns (course, consequences) of «students bullying» are caused by a) the incompatibility of the professional motivation of the scientific and pedagogical employee and the educational and professional motivation of the student, b) the transformation of the teacher-scientist into the new educational bureaucracy characterized by the insignificance of the professional growth, the loss of the professional freedom of learning and selfdevelopment, the depreciation of the scientific and pedagogical status in the professional relations with students due to the devaluation of the subject parity, 2) teacher’s personological life values are necessary conditions for their professional self-sufficiency. The following provisions were mpirically developed 1) the social psychotype of «students bullying» and its stage calendar characteristics, 2) the antipodal psychotype of a teacher as a professional role counterbalance. It was concluded that «students bullying» is an objective social phenomenon where the ideological position of its carriers simultaneously reflects 1) imperfect supremacy of the personalised responsibility as an obligatory sign of the of the civil community which is socially immature and uncertain in the prospects of its development, 2) perfect negative subjective images (samples) as a social threat to the destabilisation of the state security in the present and future calendar time.

PSYCHOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF IDENTITY TRANSFORMATION OF MIGRANTS BASED ON THE PRISMA MODEL

M. F. Pocheketa — 2025-07-02

Purpose. This article is devoted to the theoretical analysis of migration as a phenomenon that contributes to the reconstruction of personal and social identity. The main objective of the study is to develop a model of factors that determine identity transformation processes in the context of migration. Methods. A systematic review of peer-reviewed literature was conducted using the PRISMA model across five databases: Medline, PubMed, SCOPUS, Google Scholar, and ProQuest. Results. The review included 24 articles published between 2019 and 2024. The findings indicate that forced migration causes multidimensional changes in both personal and social identity, provoking crises of self-determination and adaptation. Identity, viewed as a process, is formed through interaction with the social environment, and its transformations depend on various factors. These include professional competence, political ideology, social media, sense of belonging and alienation, language proficiency, socio-economic conditions, community, culture, religion, and safety. Conclusions. Migration is a complex psychosocial process that significantly impacts an individual’s personality. It is accompanied by substantial losses, adaptation challenges, and changes in identity, which is shaped through interaction with the social context. Migration leads to an identity crisis manifested in feelings of alienation, loss of familiar identification, and the search for new forms of self-expression. In order to reframe the traumatic experiences of migrants, it is essential to consider not only their individual psychological characteristics but also the political, economic, and sociocultural factors that influence identity transformation.

TRANSFORMATION OF UKRAINIAN SOCIETY IN WARTIME: PSYCHOANALYTICAL PARALLELS WITH THE VIEWS OF E. EDINGER

N. Ye. Shylina — 2025-07-02

The article analyzes the transformation of Ukrainian society in the context of military challenges through the prism of alchemical stages interpreted by Edward Edinger. The author integrates various theoretical approaches, including psychoanalytic and neo-Freudian concepts from Freud, Jung, Erikson, Adler, Horney, and Rogers, to provide a deeper understanding of the processes of individual and collective development. The central themes are the roles of the conscious and unconscious, archetypes, and the collective unconscious in personality formation, as well as the influence of sociocultural and intrapersonal factors on these processes. Particular attention is given to the research of Ukrainian psychologists such as O. Chaban, I. Bekh, and O. Filts, who have extensively studied the psychological impact of war on the Ukrainian population, analyzing psychosocial crises, adaptation mechanisms, and the characteristics of psychological defense mechanisms during wartime. Their works illuminate how social and cultural archetypes, traditions, and symbols, including the images of the Hero, Mother, and Shadow, shape the collective psyche and are reflected in artistic works, social movements, and rituals. Using the symbolic system of alchemical processes interpreted by Edinger, the article examines the key stages of transformation within Ukraine’s collective unconscious and public consciousness. In particular, seven alchemical stages are explored: calcinatio (purification through trials), solutio (dissolution), mortificatio (mortification), separatio (separation), coniunctio (union), sublimatio (elevation), and coagulatio (coagulation). Each stage is interpreted as a metaphorical model that reflects specific aspects of the transformation of Ukrainian society. The article emphasizes that crises are not solely destructive but also carry the potential for profound societal transformation, fostering the emergence of new values and the strengthening of identity. The application of the Jungian approach enables a fusion of psychological and cultural-symbolic analysis, illustrating how archetypal processes influence both individual and collective life.

FEATURES OF THE INFLUENCE OF THE QUALITY OF LIFE OF STUDENTS OF HIGHER MEDICAL EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS ON THE SUSPENSION TO PSYCHOSOMATIC DISORDERS

V. V. Borysenko — 2025-07-02

This article investigates the impact of quality of life, as a manifestation of psychosocial functioning, on the predisposition to psychosomatic disorders among students of Ukrainian medical higher education institutions, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing war. The authors emphasize that human life is the highest value in society, making the preservation of physical and mental health a top priority. The study involved 122 students aged 17–25 from Poltava State Medical University. The methodology included an anonymous online survey utilizing the «Chaban Quality of Life Scale (CQLS)», a questionnaire for identifying psychosomatic disorders, and self-assessment scales for depression and anxiety (© Chaban O.S., Khaustova O.O.). Results indicated that a significant portion of respondents reported a low or moderate quality of life and a high risk of developing psychosomatic pathology. This risk was highest in the group with a moderate quality of life. The study also revealed that anxiety predominates over the depressive component of mood among the respondents. An interesting pattern observed was an increase in the frequency of depressive manifestations and a decrease in anxiety symptoms as quality of life indicators improved. Among the identified manifestations, behavioral-communicative disturbances were the most frequent (96.7%), followed by somato-vegetative disturbances (86.8%), and then emotional disturbances (63.7%). The findings suggest a significant role of cognitive-behavioral disturbances in the development of a predisposition to psychosomatic disorders. This may be linked to the specific adaptive and communication characteristics of the current generation of students, whose personalities were shaped under the influence of pandemic and wartime restrictions. According to the researchers, these differences are not optimal for psychosocial adaptation and increase the risk of developing persistent psychosomatic disorders, necessitating further research and the development of preventive and corrective measures.

PSYCHOLOGICAL MECHANISMS OF ADHD SELF-DIAGNOSIS: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF YOUNG ADULTS WITH DIAGNOSED AND UNDIAGNOSED DISORDER

T. V. Ivanova — 2025-07-02

The aim of the study is to identify and compare the structure of relationships between psychological factors of ADHD self-diagnosis in young adults with and without an officially confirmed diagnosis. The relevance of the study is determined by the increasing cases of ADHD self-diagnosis among youth, particularly under the influence of information from social media, and insufficient understanding of the psychological mechanisms of this process. The study involved 120 individuals aged 17 to 25 years, divided into two groups: with diagnosed ADHD (n=28) and without an official diagnosis but with self-reported ADHD symptoms (n=92). Standardized methods were used: the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale ASRS v1.1, the GAD-7 questionnaire for anxiety assessment, and O. Andronikova’s victimization identity research methodology. Additionally, questions for self-assessment of ADHD symptoms presence and their impact on life were applied. Statistical analysis included calculation of descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation analysis with significance levels p≤0,05 and p≤0,01. The results showed fundamental differences in the structure of psychological relationships between groups. In the group without diagnosis, significant correlations were found between subjective belief in having ADHD and anxiety level (r=0,26, p≤0,05), while in the diagnosed group such connections were absent. Particularly revealing is the difference in correlation strength between objective ADHD indicators and anxiety: in the group without diagnosis this connection is significantly stronger (r=0,67 vs r=0,41 in the diagnosed group). In both groups, victimization identity correlates with assessment of symptoms’ impact on life, however the mechanisms of this connection differ psychologically. The obtained results indicate that anxiety may act as a trigger for ADHD self-diagnosis only in the absence of official diagnosis confirmation. Young adults with confirmed ADHD diagnosis are characterized by “diagnostic stability,” when the disorder is integrated into the self-concept without additional emotional burden. The study confirms the necessity of differentiated approaches to psychological work with different youth groups and development of specific interventions for preventing false self-diagnosis among the young population.

THEORETICAL AND METHODOLOGICAL BASES FOR RESEARCHING THE PHENOMENON OF PSYCHOLOGICAL WELL-BEING IN CONTEMPORARY PSYCHOLOGY

I. P. Lysenko — 2025-07-02

The article is devoted to a critical analysis of theoretical and methodological approaches to studying the phenomenon of psychological well-being in modern psychological science. The study of psychological well-being is extremely relevant for several important reasons that concern both the individual level and society as a whole. This is associated with the increase in psycho-emotional stress in the modern world: in contemporary society, people are increasingly faced with chronic stress, high demands, information overload and uncertainty (economic, social, political). This creates a need for understanding and supporting psychological well-being. People with a high level of well-being have a higher level of life satisfaction, motivation, and inner harmony, which contributes to their fulfilment in personal, professional, and social spheres. At the state level, the psychological well-being of citizens is linked to the overall level of prosperity, stability, productivity, and reduction of social tension and aggression. In the context of war, loss, forced migration, and post-traumatic experiences, the study and support of psychological well-being is a necessity, not just a theoretical interest. The evolution of the understanding of psychological well-being from its initial conceptualisations to the integrative models that exist today is considered. Particular attention is paid to understanding psychological well-being as a subjective reality that integrates positive and negative emotions, the integrity of being, and the existential attitude of the individual towards their own life. The key attributes of the subjective way of being, such as autonomy, self-regulation, self-development and self-determination, are analysed in the context of their interconnection with psychological well-being. The main concepts and empirical studies that form the basis for further study of this multifaceted construct are discussed.

IMPACT OF THE DISEASE ON THE PSYCHOLOGICAL WELL-BEING OF PATIENTS WITH EPILEPSY

H. O. Muzychuk — 2025-07-02

The article presents a comprehensive study of the psychological well-being of patients with epilepsy based on empirical data. The study of psychological well-being is extremely relevant both at the individual and societal levels. In the modern world, there is an increase in psycho-emotional burden caused by chronic stress, high demands, information overload, as well as economic, social and political uncertainty. All of this creates an urgent need for a deeper understanding of the mechanisms of formation and maintenance of psychological well-being. Individuals with a high level of well-being are usually characterised by a higher level of life satisfaction, inner harmony, and motivation for self-realisation, which positively affects their functioning in personal, professional, and social spheres. Thus, ensuring and maintaining psychological well-being is an important condition for the sustainable development of both individuals and society as a whole. Psychological well-being exists primarily in the mind of the individual and is a form of subjective reality. This means that it cannot be objectively measured by external criteria, as it is an internal experience that is formed through personal interpretation and assessment of one’s own life. The subjectivity of psychological well-being is manifested, in particular, in the emotional component – a combination of positive and negative emotions. It is important to understand that well-being does not imply the constant absence of negative experiences. On the contrary, the ability to constructively experience and integrate emotions such as sadness, disappointment or fear indicates a high level of psychological maturity and adaptability. This approach is especially important when working with people with chronic illnesses, including epilepsy. In such cases, psychological well-being is not limited to the absence of symptoms or limitations, but rather to the person’s ability to accept their condition, adapt to it, and maintain their inner integrity and satisfaction with life despite the difficulties they face. The study used the author’s questionnaire and psychodiagnostic assessment tools, in particular, the SF-36 short form and the Psychological General Well-Being Index (PGWBI). The relationships between physical, social and psychological well-being indicators and a number of clinical characteristics were analysed: frequency of epileptic seizures, duration of the disease, age and socio-demographic indicators. The methods of statistical data processing were used. The results obtained indicate a significant influence of clinical and sociodemographic factors on the subjective perception of quality of life and emphasise the need to individualise psychological support and rehabilitation programmes.

PSYCHOLOGICAL WELL-BEING OF INTERNALLY DISPLACED PERSONS

O. O. Kohut — 2025-07-02

The article presents the justification of the results of the dynamics of growth of indicators of psychological well-being of internally displaced persons obtained during the rehabilitation process. The elements of psychological well-being are identified, and a program for the recovery of internally displaced persons during the war is provided.An empirical study of stress indicators, body image perception, and post-traumatic stress disorder before and after psychological interventions was conducted. This makes the study relevant. The assumption that the provided rehabilitation program for families of internally displaced persons will contribute to their recovery, reduce the indicators of post-traumatic stress disorder, and improve the indicators of psychological well-being is substantiated. The goal of the program for the rehabilitation of internally displaced persons during the war is to provide the necessary psychological interventions based on a systemic-integrative approach that combines physical and mental practices. It is shown that a phased intervention in the rehabilitation process determines the organization of the rehabilitation process of internally displaced persons during the war. The article presents the results of an empirical study of the condition of women who have experienced the loss of their homes and are trying to adapt to new social conditions. It provides all the topics of psychological inquiries that psychologists work with during recovery at each stage of the rehabilitation of displaced families. A list of problems that internally displaced persons addressed during the rehabilitation period is provided. Effective methods of intervention by psychologists for participants in the project «Recovery during War» are described. Indicators of recovery results are provided. Correlations were found between psychological well-being and the perception of women’s own body image. The dynamics of changes in the state of the project participants are reflected in graphs and tables. We see further prospects for our research in the development of the course «Psychological Well-being of the Individual» and a methodological manual.

RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN AGGRESSIVENESS AND ADDICTIVE PERSONALITY BEHAVIOUR IN ADOLESCENCE

U. B. Mykhailyshyn — 2025-07-02

The article studies the problem of the psychological characteristics of the relationship between aggressiveness and addictive behaviour of a person in adolescence. The concept of addictive behaviour is defined on the basis of the consideration of scientific concepts of researchers. It was found that this behaviour manifests itself as a person’s attempt to escape from reality by using various substances or by focusing attention on certain types of activities. An important feature of addictive behaviour is the possibility of an easy transition from one form of addiction to another. Based on the theoretical analysis of this problem, it was also found that addictive behaviour can be associated with the aggressiveness of the personality. Aggressiveness is a dynamic characteristic of a person’s activity and adaptability. However, in certain cases, the level of aggressiveness can be increased and expressed in destructive actions of the individual. It is important to establish the type of aggression depending on the object to which it is directed. Autoaggression and heteroaggression are distinguished. The tendency to form addictive behaviour is often associated with autoaggression. An empirical research of the relationship between aggressiveness and addictive behaviour in adolescence was carried out with subsequent statistical processing of data (Pearson correlation coefficient). The following methods of diagnosing aggressiveness and predisposition to various types of addictions were selected: Bass-Darka method of determining aggressiveness; V.Yu. Zavyalova questionnaire for identifying the tendency to addictive behaviour; V.D. Mendelevych method of diagnosing the tendency to addictive behaviour. Summarising the results of the methods, it was determined that the level of aggressiveness in most of the studied students does not exceed the norm. It is also noticeable that the level of tendency to addictive behaviour in the majority of adolescents is within the norm. No tendency to addictive behaviour, namely alcohol and drug abuse, was detected among the students of this sample. Using statistical data processing, namely correlation analysis, the relationship between the indicators of the methods was established. The results of the correlation analysis indicate a statistically significant relationship between the studied phenomena. Students with a high level of aggressiveness are more prone to manifestations of addictive behaviour, in particular drug and alcohol addiction, than students with a low level of aggressiveness.

PSYCHOLOGICAL FEATURES OF MANIFESTATIONS OF AGGRESSION AND THEIR INFLUENCE ON THE PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT OF A FUTURE PSYCHOLOGIST

O. O. Nezhynska — 2025-07-02

The article highlights the psychological characteristics of manifestations of aggressiveness in future psychologists during their training and analyzes the impact of these manifestations on the professional development of specialists in the field of psychology. The focus is placed on the theoretical analysis of the concepts of “aggression” and “aggressiveness,” their nature, manifestations, and the factors that determine them. It is noted that under conditions of war and social instability, aggression acquires new meanings, becoming both a destructive and a defensive reaction. The connection between aggressiveness and emotional state, behavioral rigidity, level of self-regulation, and personal traits is revealed. The article describes how aggressive reactions may influence interpersonal interaction, emotional stability, academic performance, and the ability to engage effectively in professional activities. Contemporary theoretical approaches to understanding aggression–biological, frustration-based, social learning, and cognitive–are analyzed, along with the role of aggression in the process of self-actualization. The importance of developing emotional control, stress resistance, and self-regulation skills among students of higher psychological education is emphasized as essential conditions for their professional formation. The article identifies personal, social, and professional factors that may provoke aggressiveness, particularly in the context of psychological stress, academic challenges, and life difficulties during wartime. The importance of developing emotional control, stress resilience, and selfregulation skills in higher education students is emphasized as a necessary condition for their professional formation and development. Personal, social, and professional factors that may provoke aggressiveness are identified, particularly in the context of psychological pressure, academic challenges, and life difficulties during wartime. The significance of fostering psychological culture and developing empathy as means of preventing aggressiveness is highlighted, along with the role of practical training in cultivating skills of constructive interaction and self-regulation in future psychologists. The necessity of timely diagnosis and correction of aggressiveness is substantiated, and prospects for further research are outlined–aimed at developing effective strategies for correcting aggressive behavior as a component of enhancing the competitiveness of future specialists and preventing professional burnout.

FORMATION OF STUDENTS’ LEARNING MOTIVATION IN THE CONDITIONS OF DISTANCE AND BLENDED LEARNING

L. A. Tereshchenko — 2025-07-02

The article highlights the problem of forming students’ learning motivation in the context of distance and blended learning, which has become especially relevant due to the digitalization of the educational process, a decrease in student engagement, as well as global challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic and military operations. It is emphasized that the modern education system needs new psychological and pedagogical approaches to motivation, focused on the development of internal resources of the individual, self-regulation and emotional stability. In the context of a pandemic and war, there is a need to adapt the educational process to changing circumstances that increase stress and anxiety among students, and require special attention to maintaining the psycho-emotional state. The theoretical basis of the study is the self-determination theory of motivation by R. Desi and E. Ryan, which focuses on meeting basic psychological needs – autonomy, competence and social inclusion – as prerequisites for effective learning. On the basis of this theory, a six-week programme to develop learning motivation was developed and implemented, which included six thematic modules: ‘Self-knowledge’, “Goal setting”, “Emotional support”, “Self-organization”, “Overcoming procrastination”, “Reflection on changes”. The programme has been adapted to the realities of the pandemic and war, including exercises that promote emotional resilience, the ability to adapt to stressful situations and maintain motivation in the face of uncertainty. Practical techniques and exercises included: SMART goals, motivational map, energy diary, Pomodoro technique, emotional writing, exercises to develop emotional support and the Motivation Tree. Prospects for further research are the development of long-term strategies to support academic motivation in a virtual environment, taking into account the individual characteristics of students and interpersonal interaction with teachers, as well as the analysis of the impact of social and psychological factors on the effectiveness of motivational programmes in crisis conditions.

GENDER-RELATED FEATURES OF ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS OF YOUNG SCHOOLCHILDREN

T. A. Yanovska — 2025-07-02

This article is devoted to the theoretical and practical substantiation of the process of researching the gender characteristics of the environmental consciousness of younger schoolchildren, in particular, approaches to its interpretation, the main directions in the formation of the subjective perception of the environment, forms of manifestation of environmental consciousness, its structure and main components. The essence of the concept of “environmental consciousness” in the psychological literature is characterized. It is emphasized that ecological consciousness is a reflection of a person’s attitude towards nature in the forms of a concept, judgment, law, theory, scientific thought and at the same time is aimed at ensuring its vitally necessary ecological conditions of existence, preservation and improvement of its ecological space. It is believed that the assimilation of ecological knowledge is combined with the deep emotional experiences of the individual, contributes to the formation and establishment of his ecological beliefs, views and ideas as a decisive component of ecological responsibility. That is, ecological consciousness is defined as an act of consciousness expressed in a combination of ecological knowledge and corresponding feelings, when the ecological norms learned by a person simultaneously become the norms of his behavior in relation to nature. The features of the development of environmental consciousness of primary school students are considered, which is a certain level of a child’s consciousness, which contains mental abilities to ensure its inclusion in the process of regulation and self-regulation of activity, orientation and self-orientation in the surrounding space, as well as the child’s mastery of social and cultural stereotypes aimed at preserving the natural environment, studying natural relationships. The role of gender in the development of environmental consciousness of younger schoolchildren is analyzed, which is considered as a social construct containing a number of parameters by which a person’s status in society is determined. The methodological foundations of the empirical study of gender features of the ecological consciousness of younger schoolchildren are analyzed: the study of attitudes to environmental problems, the determination of the dominant attitude towards nature, the diagnosis of the level of development of the intensity of the subjective attitude towards nature of the non-pragmatic modality and its structure. This psychodiagnostic complex of methods corresponds to the specifics of the phenomenon under study and allows us to reveal various aspects of the study of gender features of the ecological consciousness of younger schoolchildren. The organization of the empirical study and the results of the psychodiagnostics of gender features of the ecological consciousness of younger schoolchildren are analyzed: analysis of the features of the attitude of younger schoolchildren to environmental problems; analysis of the dominant environmental attitude of younger schoolchildren towards nature; characterization of the components of the intensity of the subjective attitude of younger schoolchildren towards nature.

COMPARISON OF ORGANISATIONAL BEHAVIOR IN A CRIMINAL GROUP AND A PACK OF ANIMALS

V. A. Tashmatov — 2025-07-02

This article presents a comparative analysis of the organizational behavior of criminal groups and animal packs. The main attention is paid to their structure, goals of existence, principles of interaction between participants and methods of ensuring internal order. Despite their different nature, both criminal groups and animal packs have common features, in particular, the construction of a clear hierarchy, the distribution of responsibilities and punishment for violation of established rules. In both cases, the effectiveness of the collective largely depends on properly organized communication. Criminal groups use verbal instructions, codes and conspiracies for this, while animals communicate through facial expressions, sounds, body movements and other instinctive signals. Despite the similarity in the general principles of organization, there are significant differences between these systems. Criminal groups are formed on the basis of a conscious choice of people, they are united by the desire for material gain, control over resources or power. Instead, packs arise naturally and serve primarily to ensure the survival of individuals in the wild: joint hunting, protection from predators, or reproduction. Membership in a criminal group usually requires recruitment or proving one’s loyalty, while in a pack of animals, the main factor is birth in a certain community or natural integration into the collective. The article also examines in detail the mechanisms of sanctions. Criminal groups often use harsh methods of influencing rule breakers – up to physical violence or murder. In animal packs, there are also forms of punishment: expulsion, subordination, or domination over weaker individuals. At the same time, the level of aggression in animals is determined mainly by instincts, and in criminals – by cold calculation or fear of losing control over the organization. It is separately emphasized that the viability and development of criminal groups and packs are influenced by various external factors. For criminal groups, the main threat is the activities of law enforcement agencies, competition from other gangs or internal betrayals. For a pack of animals, these are environmental changes, food shortages, predator attacks or natural disasters. So we can say that although the basic principles of organizing collective behavior in both cases have much in common (cooperation, protection, mutual assistance), the underlying motives, methods of achieving goals and ethical norms are significantly different. Analysis of similarities and differences helps to better understand the mechanisms of group behavior formation both in nature and in human society. To fully understand these processes, it is important to combine knowledge from sociology, psychology, criminology and biology.

SOCIAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE PERPETRATORS

V. A. Tashmatov — 2025-07-02

The article provides a comprehensive analysis of the socio-psychological traits of a person who commits domestic violence. Domestic violence is viewed not as a single act of aggression, but as a systemic model of behavior formed as a result of a combination of individual psychological characteristics, unfavorable social conditions and fixed cultural norms. The paper describes the main types of domestic violence – physical, psychological, sexual and economic – with a focus on their psychological consequences and typical ways of implementation by the offender. Particular attention is paid to the analysis of the influence of the family microenvironment, the experience of observing or experiencing violence in childhood, as well as social approval of the dominant model of male behavior. It is substantiated that traditional ideas of masculinity, which imply strength, emotional restraint and tight control, significantly increase the risk of tolerance to domestic violence. It has been determined that socialization factors and cultural stereotypes interact with psychological mechanisms, increasing the tendency to aggressive behavior. From a psychological perspective, the article focuses on such mechanisms as projection (unconscious transfer of one’s own destructive emotions to a partner), frustration (emotional tension that arises when a goal is not achieved), and insufficient ability to emotional self-regulation. It is proved that impulsivity, low stress resistance, lack of empathy, and lack of constructive conflict resolution skills are the leading predictors of violent behavior. It is emphasized that an offender in a situation of domestic violence is not only an aggressor, but also a carrier of deeper personal deformations that require professional intervention. The results of the study are of practical importance for specialists in the field of psychology, social work and law, in particular for the development of correctional programs, resocialization of aggressors and prevention of domestic violence.

EMPIRICAL STUDY OF PECULIARITIES OF PTSD MANIFESTATIONS IN MILITARY PERSONNEL

L. Ye. Beheza — 2025-07-02

Post-traumatic stress disorder is one of the most common mental disorders among military personnel and can occur as a result of military trauma, combat, and is accompanied by symptoms such as repeated memories of events, hyper-arousal, a sense of isolation, anxiety, and other psychological and physical reactions. PTSD in military personnel is one of the most common mental disorders that can develop due to participation in combat, physical and mental trauma (witnessing cruelty and violence, fear for one’s own life and the lives of colleagues, distance from family and friends) and other stressors. It has been found that the main stressors can be: danger to life and health, emotional stress, physical and mental exhaustion, social isolation, the need to make quick and important decisions. The following three groups of factors play a major role in the etiology of PTSD: hereditary and constitutional; psycho-emotional; and psycho-organic. PTSD is a mental disorder that can develop in people who have experienced or witnessed traumatic events that threatened their lives or physical and mental well-being. Symptoms of PTSD may include recurrent memories of the traumatic event, hyperarousal, intrusive thoughts and memories, feelings of isolation or alienation, severe anxiety, and other mental and emotional symptoms. This disorder can significantly limit a person’s ability to function in everyday life and require professional help to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. The results obtained using diagnostic methods indicate that servicemen have PTSD, and its manifestations are formed and stable. It has been determined that PTSD can significantly affect the quality of life of servicemen and their families, as well as their social and professional adaptation after returning. It is important to provide support and access to psychological and medical care for servicemen and women experiencing PTSD, as well as psychological support for families during the period of military readaptation, which will help them overcome difficulties and adapt to civilian life after service.

METHODOLOGY FOR ASSESSING CRITICAL THINKING DEVELOPMENT IN OPERATIONAL-LEVEL OFFICERS

O. H. Rybchuk — 2025-07-02

The article focuses on the theoretical and empirical substantiation of a set of psychodiagnostic methods designed to objectively assess the level of critical thinking development in operational-level officers. The relevance of this research arises from the need to enhance the effectiveness of military personnel in the context of modern armed conflicts, where critical thinking plays a key role in ensuring the timeliness and validity of command decisions. Critical thinking is viewed as a complex psychological phenomenon that incorporates metacognitive, cognitive, and socio-communicative components. The metacognitive component is responsible for reflective control over thought processes, facilitating self-regulation and evaluation of personal decisions. The cognitive component ensures the analytical and synthetic information processing, enabling officers to accurately assess combat situations and predict potential outcomes. The socio-communicative component develops the ability to engage in constructive teamwork during decision-making processes. Based on theoretical and methodological analysis, as well as empirical data, a comprehensive set of psychodiagnostic tools has been justified, aimed at assessing the development levels of each critical thinking component. Three levels of critical thinking development have been identified: high, medium, and low. This differentiation allows for a personalized approach to officer training, timely identification of the need to enhance their critical thinking skills, and the development of individualized psychological support programs aimed at improving decision-making efficiency under combat conditions. Such differentiation also enables the identification of specific groups of officers requiring targeted interventions to strengthen their critical thinking, which, in turn, contributes to improving the overall quality of professional military training.

GENDER DIFFERENCES IN POLICE OFFICERS’ MOTIVATION AND THEIR IMPLICATIONS FOR PROFESSIONAL ACTIVITY

D. V. Shvets — 2025-07-02

The professional activity of police officers requires a high level of intrinsic motivation, which ensures the effective fulfillment of duties under conditions of increased complexity, risk, and social tension, especially in wartime. Motivation serves as a central factor that determines the degree of engagement, achievement orientation, drive for personal growth, and resilience under professional stress. This article presents the results of an empirical study on the motivational sphere of police officers, taking into account the gender aspect. To assess the motivational profile, the “Motivational Profile of the Personality” method by S. Ritchie and P. Martin was applied, which includes 12 motivational scales and allows for identifying dominant motives. The study involved 271 officers of the National Police of Ukraine (208 men and 63 women) of various ages and professional experience. The analysis of motivational levels and dominant vectors across genders revealed several significant differences. Specifically, female police officers demonstrated higher motivation in areas related to professional growth, creativity, self-realization, and positive perception of organizational conditions. In contrast, male officers showed a more pragmatic approach to work, with a focus on stability and functional outcomes. The empirical findings highlight the multidimensional nature of the motivational structure among police officers of both genders and reveal systematic gender differences that are significant for organizational psychology and personnel management. Specifically, female officers tend to prioritize development, social utility, and creativity, while male officers are more oriented toward structure, autonomy, and stability. The implications of these results point to the need for implementing differentiated motivational strategies in personnel management, which can help reduce professional burnout, enhance job satisfaction, and improve task performance in challenging conditions, particularly under martial law. Future study will focus on motivational factors of service effectiveness in crisis conditions.

INTEGRATIVE MECHANISMS OF THE INFLUENCE OF MINDFULNESS-BASED INTERVENTIONS ON EMOTIONAL REGULATION

S. M. Skrypynets — 2025-07-02

The article explores the mechanisms by which mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) impact emotional regulation from an integrative perspective. The relevance stems from the high prevalence of stress-related psychological disorders (anxiety, depression, PTSD) and the need to improve treatment efficacy. The introduction substantiates the aim – to analyze current MBI models and their psychological mechanisms of action, as well as to summarize the clinical effects of such interventions. The main part presents a review of 12 MBI programs (MBSR, MBCT, ACT, DBT, MBRP, etc.), indicating the developers, year of creation, focus, and key mechanisms (shown in a table). The psychological mechanisms of mindfulness practices are considered: cognitive (improved attention, metacognitive reappraisal, decentering of thoughts), affective (reduced rumination, exposure and acceptance of emotions instead of suppression), and interoceptive (enhanced awareness of bodily sensations and “embodied” emotional experience). Research findings demonstrating the impact of MBIs on reducing anxiety, depression, post-traumatic symptoms, and stress are presented, and differences in mechanisms for various disorders are highlighted (e.g., decreasing avoidance in anxiety vs. rumination in depression). An integrative model of mindfulness mechanisms is described, combining top-down (conscious cognitive control) and bottom-up (sensory acceptance) emotion regulation processes, and the roles of interpersonal and motivational components are discussed. The conclusions summarize the main findings: MBIs effectively improve emotional regulation through a set of interacting mechanisms; prospects for adapting MBIs in wartime conditions in Ukraine for military personnel, medical workers, and veterans are proposed. The importance of avoiding a reductionist “McMindfulness” approach when implementing mindfulness practices is emphasized.

BOARD GAMES AS A TOOL FOR DEVELOPING SELF-REGULATION IN CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL NEEDS

L. V. Turishcheva — 2025-07-02

The article explores the role of board games as a tool for developing self-regulation in children with special educational needs. The features of the concept of self-regulation in the works of domestic and foreign researchers have been analyzed. The peculiarities of self-regulation in children with special educational needs are considered. Information is presented regarding such indicators of self-regulation as planning, modeling, programming, evaluation of results, flexibility, and independence. Particular attention is paid to the importance of games in the development of cognitive, emotional, and social skills, which are crucial for the successful adaptation of such children in society. The advantages of using board games in the educational process are examined, particularly their ability to improve attention span, reduce impulsivity, and foster planning and self-control skills. It is noted that board games help students with special educational needs enhance their capacity for emotional self-regulation, manage their emotional states, and interact effectively with others. A selection of board games aimed at developing specific indicators of self-regulation is presented. The features of conducting corrective sessions using board games with students with hearing impairments are analyzed. In the ascertaining experiment, the results of children with hearing and speech impairments were analyzed. The formative experiment was conducted with students with speech impairments. A control experiment was also carried out. The obtained results were processed using methods of mathematical statistics. An overview of existing research is provided, the article reviews existing research confirming the effectiveness of games in fostering self-regulation in children with various developmental disorders. Based on the analysis of scholarly works, the author proposes a comprehensive approach to the use of board games in inclusive education, which supports the development of key aspects of self-regulation in children with special educational needs.

NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL ASPECTS OF MUSIC THERAPY: INFLUENCE ON ACTIVATION OF BRAIN AREAS

R. S. Nesen — 2025-07-02

This article presents a theoretical review of recent research on the neuropsychological aspects of music therapy and its impact on the activation of brain regions across different age groups and clinical populations. Key neuroimaging techniques (fMRI, PET, DTI-MRI) and neurophysiological methods (EEG, MEG) used to map brain responses to musical stimuli are discussed. The mechanisms by which the prefrontal cortex (PFC), hippocampus, amygdala, auditory and motor cortical areas, as well as subcortical structures (thalamus, cerebellum), are engaged in processes of emotional regulation, memory, learning, and motor activity are described. Analysis of studies in pediatric populations demonstrates that instrumental and vocal music therapy exercises enhance cognitive flexibility, emotional resilience, and motor skills in children with neurological impairments. In adult patients with anxiety and depressive disorders, music listening and performance correlate with reduced amygdala reactivity and increased dorsolateral PFC activation, resulting in decreased symptoms of anxiety and depression. In elderly patients with neurodegenerative diseases (Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s), music therapy supports neuroplasticity and facilitates recovery of cognitive functions and motor abilities, notably through activation of the dopaminergic reward system and alternative motor pathways. A dedicated section addresses post-stroke rehabilitation, where music-supported therapy promotes motor recovery by strengthening audio–motor network connectivity and increasing excitability of the primary motor cortex. In summary, music therapy is an effective, multisystem intervention that simultaneously activates sensory, emotional, and executive brain networks and can serve as a valuable complement to conventional treatment and rehabilitation methods.