AGE DIFFERENCES IN COPING STRATEGIES AMONG INTERNALLY DISPLACED PERSONS (IDPS)

Abstract

The article is devoted to an empirical study of the features of stress-coping behavior of internally displaced persons (IDPs) in the conditions of a prolonged critical life situation caused by the war in Ukraine. The paper analyzes the current problem in the scientific psychological literature. The essence of the concepts “critical life situation”, “stress”, and “anxiety” is analyzed, along with their interrelation and influence on the adaptive capabilities of the individual. The differences between crisis and critical situations are revealed, emphasizing the role of subjective perception of events alongside external circumstances. The nature of anxiety is characterized – both as an adaptive signal of danger and as a maladaptive reaction at excessive intensity. The main approaches to understanding stress-coping mechanisms are considered; in particular, a distinction is made between the concepts of psychological defense (as a passive, unconscious reaction) and coping behavior (as active, conscious strategies). The main factors influencing vulnerability to stress are outlined, as well as the role and impact of using coping mechanisms to overcome stress. The results of an empirical study aimed at examining stress in critical life situations and the methods for mastering them are presented. A training program for mastering stress in critical life situations has been developed. The importance of developing and improving coping strategies as a factor for successfully overcoming stressful situations in every person’s life is highlighted. Summarizing the theoretical review of the problem, it is emphasized that the effective overcoming of a critical situation largely depends on the individual’s ability to use active, conscious coping strategies, rather than being limited to passive defense mechanisms. In the empirical part, the current psycho-emotional state and dominant coping strategies were investigated.