Patterns of coping with stress in a situation of military conflict among Russian youth

Introduction. The relevance of this research is determined by the significant impact of military conflict on the psycho emotional state of youth, which manifests in increased levels of stress and anxiety, particularly depending on the territorial proximity to the conflict zone. The aim of this study is to identify and describe coping patterns in the context of military conflict (the special military operation) among Russian youth, taking into account their proximity to the zone of military actions. Methodology, methods, and techniques. The study was conducted within the framework of a nomothetic approach. The research utilized questionnaires and techniques such as the “Coping Inventory for Stressful Situations” (C. Carver), the scale of experiencing military threat (K. V. Karpinski), and the “Hardiness Test” (S. Maddi, adapted by E. N. Osina). A total of 583 respondents (66 men and 517 women) aged 17 to 39 participated in the study, divided into three groups based on their territorial proximity to the special military operation zone. KEYWORDS Results. The study revealed a significant influence of the special military operation on the psycho-emotional state of youth, characterized by chronic stress, anxiety, and deterioration of health. The indicators of military anxiety correspond to a high level of normative values (M=8.12). The three presented coping patterns – “passive-escapist” (factor loading 3.45, 24.6% of explained variance), “problem-oriented” (factor loading 2.01, 14.34% of explained variance) and “socially-oriented” (factor loading 1.97, 14.04% of explained variance) – reflect different models of adaptation. The "passive-escapist coping pattern" is more characteristic of those living in the territory directly involved in military actions (p=0.001). The "socially-oriented coping pattern" is significantly higher among those living in remote territories (p=0.02). The predominance of the coping strategies of “denial” and “acceptance” indicates low coping effectiveness, especially among youth close to the conflict zone. The results highlight the need for specialized support and further research in the field of stress psychology and youth adaptation to military conflicts. Scientific novelty and practical significance. The study identifies specific coping patterns among youth affected by military conflict and explores their connection to territorial proximity to the conflict zone, emphasizing the necessity for developing targeted psychological support programs.