Gender features of aggressive behavior in conflict situations of adolescents during martial law

Abstract

The article examines the gender-specific characteristics of aggressive behavior in adolescents within conflict situations under conditions of martial law. The relevance of the study is determined by the protracted impact of warrelated stress on the mental state of the younger generation in Ukraine, which manifests in increased conflict, aggression, and deviant behavior. Adolescence itself constitutes a critical period of personality development, and its combination with chronic psychotraumatic conditions heightens the risk of maladaptive behavioral patterns. The aim of the study was to identify gender-specific features of adolescent aggressive behavior in conflict situations and to determine differences in the choice of response strategies depending on gender identity. The research methodology was grounded in the principles of determinism, developmental psychology, and a systemic approach. The empirical sample comprised 60 adolescents aged 14–15 (30 boys and 30 girls). A set of psychodiagnostic tools was employed: Sandra Bem’s Sex-Role Inventory (BSRI), the Buss-Durkee Hostility Inventory (A. Bass, A. Darki), V. Stefansson’s Q-Sort Method, and the Method for Assessing the Leading Type of Response in Conflict (M.M. Kashapov, T.G. Kiseleva). Statistical analysis was performed using the Mann-Whitney U-test and Student’s t-test. The scientific novelty of the study lies in obtaining empirical data on the specificities of aggressive behavior in adolescents with different gender identities under wartime stress, as well as in highlighting the adaptive potential of the androgynous personality type. Conclusions. The findings indicate that adolescents with pronounced masculinity more frequently exhibit hostility, suspicion, and a preference for the confrontational “Aggression” strategy. In contrast, adolescents with a feminine personality type are characterized by higher levels of physical aggression accompanied by feelings of guilt and resentment, alongside a tendency toward optimal conflict resolution. The results hold practical value for developing differentiated psychological support, prevention, and correction programs for adolescents living under martial law.