THEORETICAL ANALYSIS OF THE SOCIO-PSYCHOLOGICAL EFFECTS OF MEDIATED COMMUNICATION IN MILITARY FAMILIES

Abstract

This article presents a theoretical analysis of the socio-psychological effects of mediated communication in military families, a topic of particular relevance in a time of war. It emphasizes that physical separation and uncertainty create unprecedented challenges for maintaining family integrity, and mediated communication becomes a vital tool for supporting military families. The paper identifies three main forms of communication: synchronous, asynchronous, and multimodal (a combination of formats), each with its own advantages and risks. The effectiveness of this communication is determined to depend on regularity, openness, empathetic feedback, and content adaptability to the needs of all family members. It is established that mediated communication has both positive and negative effects on family dynamics. Positive effects can include: maintaining emotional closeness, trust, and affection within the family, preserving the parental upbringing function, enabling joint decision-making, and strengthening the sense of family belonging. At the same time, there can be significant risks. The absence of non-verbal cues often leads to misunderstandings and conflicts. The constant need for connection can cause emotional burnout and overload. Irregular or emotionally poor communication can lead to alienation. In addition, unequal access to technology creates “digital gaps” that can further complicate communication. It is concluded that, with the conscious and purposeful use of digital tools, mediated communication not only compensates for physical separation but also helps to deepen trust and emotional stability in military families, which is vital for their psychological well-being. The paper analyzes prospects and directions for further research on the socio-psychological effects of mediated communication in military families. These include longitudinal studies of changes in communication patterns in military families at different stages of family life, research on the impact of PTSD and traumatic experience on communication, and the development and testing of psychological support programs for military families, among others.