COGNITIVE AND BEHAVIORAL TECHNIQUES AS AN EFFECTIVE METHOD OF SUPPORTING THE PSYCHOLOGICAL RESILIENCE OF MILITARY UNDER COMBAT STRESS

Abstract

Combat activities have adverse effects like behavior disorganization, skill inhibition, maladaptive reactions, attention and memory difficulties, and impulsive actions, disrupting combat efficiency and causing significant physiological changes. Soldier readiness and mission success hinge on psychological stability, adapting combat elements, stress management, and quick adaptation. Resilience assessment involves understanding behavioral, emotional, and cognitive mechanisms, crucial for overcoming challenges. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) tackles distorted perceptions and responses in psychiatric disorders, fostering realistic thinking, emotional stability, and problem-solving skills, making it vital in psychological support and fighter training. The article discusses an empirical study on the psychological resilience of servicemen in a special police unit under combat stress. It assumes that using CBT tools in the unit psychologist’s work will enhance fighters’ adaptability to combat stress, leading to increased psychological stability. According to the research findings, the studied group experienced reduced subjective assessment of combat stress intensity. Service conditions were perceived as having lower workload, energy expenditure, risks, and moderate mobilization. Additionally, they reported periods of relaxation and lower sensitivity to triggers. In comparison to the control group, the studied group also exhibited decreased neuropsychological instability, reducing the likelihood of breakdowns. Predicting successful professional outcomes enables categorizing employees into groups I or II with "favorable" or "very favorable" prognoses. Comparing the initial and final research findings within groups revealed a decrease in somatic complaints, enhanced performance perception, better sleep satisfaction, and overall well-being in the studied group. No changes were noted in the control group. Unlike Type A behavior marked by high aggressiveness and excitability, fast-paced communication, impatience, sudden movements, and intense competition, the studied group exhibited a slight move towards Type B behavior, characterized by lower aggressiveness in relationships, a perception of time passing slowly, relaxation, calmness, and a generally tranquil demeanor. Efforts to enhance the psychological resilience of military personnel under combat stress are ongoing. It’s uncertain if specific training can fully protect individuals from severe trauma. However, CBT techniques are effective in bolstering fighters’ psychological resilience and adaptability during and after service.