Psychological resources and risk factors of adaptation to military service among military personnel with different lengths of service and graduating students

Abstract

Adaptation to military service is a complex process requiring the mobilization of personal resources and the ability to cope with emotional and psychological stress. The aim of this study was to identify psychological resources and risk factors associated with adaptation to military service among conscripts with different lengths of service and to determine potential risk factors among students. The study assessed adverse childhood experiences (ACE-10), hardiness (PVS III-R), emotional state (DASS-21), traumatic stress, adaptive potential, and interpersonal interaction. A high level of commitment was observed in 69.6% of servicemen after 5 months of service and in 63.6% after 12 months. High levels of control were found in 60.9% and 63.6%, respectively, while high levels of risk acceptance were observed in 60.9% and 63.6%. A high level of overall hardiness was identified in 13.0% of servicemen after 5 months of service and in 22.7% after one year; however, a moderate level of overall hardiness predominated in both groups. Low levels of adverse childhood experiences were identified in 95.7% of servicemen after 5 months and in 100% after 12 months of service. Among final-year students, a moderate level of hardiness predominated (61.5%). High levels of depression, anxiety, and stress were identified in 43.5%, 39.1%, and 13.0% of students, respectively, while a moderate level of stress was observed in 69.6%. The findings highlight the need for early psychological screening and the development of stress resilience, emotional self-regulation, and other adaptive resources during pre-conscription training.