Psychological stability of the individual in extreme situations

Abstract

Objective

The main purpose of this study is to consider the factors influencing the stability of the human mental system in extreme situations.

Methods

The study used structural and functional methods, dialectical methods, synthesis, logical analysis, and generalisation. A survey was also conducted with 70 participants divided into two age groups, using empirical methods such as the “Research of volitional self-regulation” test, the “Diagnostics of emotional barriers in interpersonal communication” methodology, and the “Self-assessment test of mental state”.

Results

It was found that extreme events have a psychogenic impact, which includes both direct threats to human life and indirect threats. Psychological stability is a protective characteristic that enhances a person's ability to adapt to environmental conditions and mitigates the harmful effects of stress. Individuals with higher stress tolerance maintained mental health, social adaptation, and professional efficiency in difficult conditions. The study revealed that the second group (aged 30–40) demonstrated a higher level of psychological stress resistance compared to the first group (aged 18–25).

Conclusion

This paper is practically important, since all theoretical provisions, conclusions, and recommendations can be used by psychologists or other specialists to increase knowledge about the impact of extreme situations on the psychological stress tolerance of a person, and to improve the system of methods of working with people who have fallen into such circumstances.