Keywords
moral disengagement
emotional distancing
compassion fatigue
psychological defense
war
How to Cite
Abstract
In the context of the full-scale war in Ukraine, there is an increasing need for a deeper understanding of the psychological mechanisms underlying citizens’ social, emotional, and moral disengagement. The relevance of this topic stems not only from the need to record forms of passivity but also from identifying latent psychological defense strategies that may be disguised as adaptive or socially neutral behavior. The aim of the study is to identify the features of emotional, moral, and social disengagement among the Ukrainian population under conditions of chronic stress caused by war. The object of the research is disengagement as a socio-psychological phenomenon formed at the intersection of personal, situational, and cultural-historical factors. The article presents the results of a pilot quantitative study using an original questionnaire that covered several thematic blocks, including attitudes toward the war, the state, volunteering, as well as levels of compassion fatigue and moral exhaustion. Statistical analysis (nonparametric criteria) revealed several types of disengagement that differ in terms of intensity, socio-demographic characteristics of respondents, and accompanying emotional reactions. Women, young people, and residents of large cities were found to demonstrate emotional distancing more frequently. Age, professional status, and the level of personal exhaustion were also significant predictors of disengagement, while region of residence had minimal impact. Distinct response profiles were identified—ranging from active civic involvement to psychological “shutdown” as a form of self-preservation. The practical significance of this research lies in its applicability to crisis psychology, the design of public communication strategies, volunteer support, and civic education. The proposed typology of disengagement may serve as a basis for developing targeted psychosocial interventions aimed at reducing apathy and strengthening social cohesion.
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