Social and psychological assistance to children under martial law

Abstract

The purpose of the study is to identify the main psycho-emotional states and factors affecting the physical and mental well-being of schoolchildren, including during distance learning and in relationships with family members, as well as to develop areas of psychosocial assistance to children under martial law. To achieve the research purpose, an appropriate questionnaire was developed with multiple-choice questions about: dominant emotions and feelings, attitudes towards distance learning, reactions to external stimuli, the impact of martial law on the comfort of life, relationships with peers and parents, etc. A survey was conducted among 1303 schoolchildren aged 6–17, including 515 boys and 788 girls, 11 of whom live outside Ukraine. The survey found that the physical and psycho-emotional well-being of Ukrainian schoolchildren was characterised by sleep disturbances, agitation, fear, rapid mood changes, severe fatigue, sadness, longing, indignation, irritation, anger, increased conflicts (especially with parents), etc. An additional factor in the increased level of anxiety under martial law was distance learning, which makes it difficult for students to concentrate due to the difficulty of communication, shifted daily routines, worries about family and friends, changes in responsibilities and other distractions. The main directions of psycho-correctional work and recommendations for the use of psychosocial assistance technologies have been developed, which will allow children to assess their current life situation, identify their strengths (resources), which will ensure their self-healing and increase their resilience.