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

Abstract

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.