Resilience and Assertive Behavior as Factors of Psychological Adaptation in the Context of Psychotraumatic Experiences

Introduction. The article considers resilience and assertive behavior phenomena as key psychological resources of the personality in the conditions of psychotraumatic experiences. The relevance of the study is determined by the increasing frequency in extreme situations of modern times, including military conflicts, which require mobilization of the adaptive potential of the personality. The study of the relationship between resilience and assertive behavior is of particular interest in understanding the mechanisms of psychological adaptation in crisis conditions. Objective. Analyze the relationship between the level of resilience and the formation of assertive behavior in survivors of psychotraumatic events and assess their role in the formation of adaptive models of interaction with a stressful environment. Materials and Methods. Diagnostic tools included the S. Maddy resilience test adapted by D. A. Leontiev, the A. Beck and A. Weissman Dysfunctional Attitude Scale, and the author’s questionnaire for assessing coping strategies. Statistical processing of the data was carried out using descriptive statistics and correlation analysis methods. Results. The study involved 250 residents of the DNR and LNR who were exposed to the impact of hostilities. A statistically significant decrease in the resilience indicators and their components (involvement, control, risk acceptance) was revealed in the study sample compared to normative values. Negative correlations were found between resilience level and use of maladaptive coping strategies, as well as positive correlations with proactive coping strategies. The results showed that 22.4% of the respondents demonstrated a high degree of dysfunctional interpersonal relationships. Discussion. The data obtained testify to the systemic nature of violations of personality adaptation resources under the influence of prolonged psychotraumatization. The concept of assertive behavior as a behavioral expression of a personalit’’s resilient position is substantiated. Practical recommendations are developed for complex psychological assistance, including the development of resilient beliefs, training in assertive behavior, and correction of dysfunctional cognitive schemes.