PSYCHOLOGICAL FEATURES OF THE MANIFESTATION OF FEARS AND ANXIETY IN THE POST-TRAUMATIC PERIOD PERSONALITY

Abstract

The article examines the specifics of the manifestation of fears in the post-traumatic period, which is closely related to the phenomenon of triggers - external or internal stimuli associated with trauma. However, the psychological problem lies not only in the reaction to the trigger, but in the generalization of fear. A special place in the structure of post-traumatic experiences is occupied by the deformation of the image of the «I» and the decrease in self-esteem. Trauma is often accompanied by a feeling of helplessness and humiliation, which later transforms into deep shame and guilt. It is described that anxiety and fear in the post-traumatic period are not just symptoms of a disorder, but complex psychological phenomena that indicate a deep crisis of adaptation and transformation of the personality. They affect the fundamental foundations of human existence: a sense of security, trust, self-worth, and time perspective. Fear ceases to perform its protective function and becomes a destructive factor that limits a person’s living space. Understanding these features is critically important for organizing effective psychological assistance, because working with trauma requires not only relieving anxiety symptoms, but also restoring the integrity of the «I», regaining a sense of control over one’s own life and finding new meanings. Such a disparity indicates that the respondents’ psyche is in a state of chronic combat readiness, trying to control potential threats. Critically high indicators of situational anxiety according to C. Spielberger (68%) in combination with pronounced symptoms of «intrusion » on the IES-R scale (intrusive memories, flashbacks) indicate that the trauma has not been integrated into past experience, but continues to exist as a current experience «here and now». The features of the manifestation of anxiety also depend on age and individual psychological characteristics.