CONSULTATIVE AND CORRECTIONAL POTENTIAL OF THE SCREENING METHODOLOGY FOR TRAUMATIC MEMORIES IN MILITARY SERVICEMEMBERS

Abstract

The article is devoted to the approbation of the methodology we have developed, entitled «Screening of Traumatic Memories in Military Servicemembers» which aims at a comprehensive study of the dynamics of the impact of combat-related traumatic events on the psychological functioning of the individual. The methodology is structured around six key scales, each reflecting a distinct component of internal experience and psychosocial response to traumatic memories. The scales of the methodology form a holistic system that allows for the identification of changes in the cognitive, emotional, behavioral, and temporal domains following exposure to traumatic events.

The paper presents the theoretical foundation of the methodology, which relies on interconnected concepts. The concept of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) describes symptoms of intrusive memories, avoidance, and emotional hyperarousal. The theory of cognitive reconstruction views the alteration of memories as a result of their subjective interpretation. The cognitive-behavioral paradigm explains how traumatic beliefs influence emotions and behavior. A neuropsychological approach reveals the mechanisms of impaired memory consolidation and fragmentation. The theory of temporal perspective indicates a fixation on the past and a loss of future orientation. Social adaptation theory describes difficulties in restoring social connections and interpersonal interaction. The concept of social constructivism substantiates the change in identity under new conditions. The concept of emotional intelligence explains the ability to understand and regulate emotions after traumatization.

The results of the empirical study demonstrate the statistical reliability and validity of the developed screening methodology, its sensitivity to intergroup differences, and its ability to identify structurally distinct vectors of maladaptation. Specifically, it was found that traumatic memories in military personnel are more systemically linked to identity, professional beliefs, and rigid response patterns than in civilians, which necessitates specific diagnostic and psychotherapeutic approaches.

The study holds not only theoretical significance for understanding traumatic memory as a flexible construct but also practical value for using the screening methodology to diagnose the impact of traumatic memories in military personnel and in the subsequent work of their reconstruction. This reconstruction can be achieved through body-oriented, trauma-focused, cognitive-behavioral, physical therapy, or desensitization and reprocessing, with the aim of reducing the level of traumatization and improving psycho-emotional functioning.