ISSN 2520-6265 (print)
ISSN 2520-6273 (online)
Authors:
T. S. Kudrina, PhD (Candidate of Psychological Sciences), Associate Professor,
Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv
ORCID: 0000-0002-8553-2457
E-mail: mikhajlenko.tatiana@gmail.com
O. Y. Kozlovska, Second-year PhD student,
Educational and Scientific Program "Psychology", Faculty of Psychology,
Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv
ORCID: 0000-0002-0947-7679
E-mail: kozlovska0410@gmail.com
DOI: https://doi.org/10.17721/upj.2024.2(22).3
Article Information
Issue: 2(22) 2024, pages: 45-61
Language: Ukrainian
Received: 09.09.2024
1st Revision: 15.09.2024
Accepted: 18.09.2024
The article provides an overview of modern scientific literature that examines the psychological factors influencing post-traumatic growth in veterans having combat experience. The main focus is on psychological resources such as resilience (psychological strength), stress coping styles, and emotional regulation, which are keys for adaptation after traumatic events. Special attention is paid to the role of personal experience in veterans who have undergone combat operations and how this experience can contribute to post-traumatic growth – a process of positive changes that occur after trauma. The article thoroughly reviews the results of recent empirical studies that emphasize the importance of these psychological factors in shaping recovery strategies. In particular, studies show that veterans with strong resilience and effective stress coping styles are better able to adapt to the consequences of hostilities and can achieve post-traumatic growth. They not only adapt more easily to stressful situations but also find new strengths for development after trauma, which helps them lead more fulfilling lives. Based on the analysis of scientific papers, key directions for future research have been identified. It is particularly important to continue studying the mechanisms of emotional regulation, adaptive stress coping strategies, and the role of social support for veterans. Research in these areas can contribute to the development of more effective psychological assistance programs aimed at supporting veterans, improving their psychosocial well-being, and fostering their post-traumatic growth after experiencing combat hostilities. Regarding prospects for future research, we should note that upcoming studies should focus on developing new approaches to supporting veterans while considering the complex nature of their post-traumatic experience, shaped by prolonged combat conditions. There is a need to explore the possibility of integrating multidisciplinary methods and introducing innovative therapeutic techniques that will help maximize their recovery and successful adaptation to civilian life. Given that the conflict is still ongoing and combat operations continue, it is essential to develop approaches that reflect the realities when veterans return to civilian life under the influence of constant threat and stress. Taking into account the specific features of the post-traumatic experience formed in such conditions is a key to a deeper understanding the mechanisms of psychological adaptation and personal growth in veterans who seek to adapt to civilian life despite the ongoing conflict.
Key words: post-traumatic growth, veterans, combat experience, resilience, psychological resources, coping strategies, social support.
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