THE ROLE OF THE COMMUNITY IN THE SOCIAL ADAPTATION OF INTERNALLY DISPLACED YOUTH IN THE CONTEXT OF PREVENTING SOCIAL DISADVANTAGE

Abstract

The article is devoted to the role of the territorial community in the social adaptation of internally displaced youth in the context of preventing social maladjustment. As a result of the armed aggression against Ukraine, the number of internally displaced persons has significantly increased, among whom young people constitute a particularly vulnerable group due to the disruption of social ties, limited access to educational, cultural, and labor resources, as well as psychoemotional difficulties. This increases the risk of social isolation, maladaptation, and marginalization. Youth social maladjustment is considered a complex condition that combines psychological difficulties, social instability, resource deficits, and limited access to assistance, which complicates integration and socialization. The authors emphasize that communities can effectively facilitate youth adaptation through a system of social services, youth infrastructure, involvement of the state and public sectors, and engagement in community life. The study of the activities of social initiatives and youth centers in the Cherkasy region (including the Youth Council under the Cherkasy Regional State Administration, the Cherkasy Regional Youth Resource Center, the NGO “Youth for Youth,” etc.) demonstrates their significant role in creating conditions for youth self-realization, enhancing their level of social integration, and preventing negative social phenomena. Key mechanisms aimed at integrating young internally displaced persons are highlighted, including participation in consultative bodies, establishment of information and communication networks, psychosocial support, employment and professional activity support, as well as the development of social cohesion through cultural, educational, and volunteer initiatives. Prospects for further research include studying the effectiveness of community strategies for youth integration and the influence of individual and macro-social factors on the prevention of social maladjustment.