SOCIO-PSYCHOLOGICAL FOUNDATIONS OF THE INTEGRATION OF DEMOBILIZED MILITARY PERSONNEL INTO THE CIVILIAN ENVIRONMENT

Abstract

The article provides a theoretical analysis of the socio-psychological foundations of the integration of demobilized military personnel into the civilian environment in the context of the full-scale Russian-Ukrainian war. It is substantiated that the process of returning military personnel to peaceful civilian life cannot be reduced solely to the individual overcoming of combat stress or traumatic experience. Instead, integration is conceptualized as a socially conditioned phenomenon that emerges at the intersection of personal psychological resources, interpersonal interactions, and the broader sociocultural context in which demobilized service members resume civilian roles.
Based on an analysis of contemporary international and Ukrainian scholarly research, the article highlights the crucial role of social connectedness, sense of belonging to the civilian community, social support, and the transformation of social identity as key factors in the successful integration of demobilized military personnel. Particular attention is paid to the loss of military social structures after demobilization and the resulting disruption of habitual social ties, which previously provided stability, recognition, and a clear system of roles and values. The absence or insufficiency of compensatory civilian social networks often complicates the transition process and increases the risk of socio-psychological maladaptation.
The study demonstrates that social isolation, weakened interpersonal relationships, and identity uncertainty following demobilization should be considered independent factors contributing to socio-psychological distress, rather than merely secondary consequences of combat-related trauma or post-traumatic stress symptoms. These factors may significantly hinder the restoration of full social functioning even in cases where clinical symptoms are moderate or effectively managed. From this perspective, integration is viewed as a dynamic process that involves not only internal psychological restructuring but also external validation and acceptance of a new civilian social role.
The findings support the relevance of examining the integration of demobilized military personnel primarily through a socio-psychological lens. Such an approach allows for a more comprehensive understanding of the interaction between individual experiences and social environments and emphasizes the importance of community involvement, social inclusion, and identity reconstruction. The article concludes that this theoretical framework provides a solid foundation for further empirical research and for the development of comprehensive psychosocial support strategies aimed at facilitating veterans’ successful reintegration and long-term participation in civilian society during the post-war period.