RESILIENCE AS A PROTECTIVE FACTOR IN OVERCOMING EMOTIONAL BURNOUT AMONG HIGHER EDUCATION STUDENTS IN THE CONTEXT OF SOCIAL CHALLENGES

Abstract

In the course of the study, the author analyses the definition of ‘resilience’, noting that it is regarded as an integrative personality trait reflecting the ability to adapt, cope with stressful situations and restore one’s psychological and emotional state in the face of adverse factors. It is argued that resilience acts not only as a psychological defence mechanism but also as a resource for personal development, ensuring the effective functioning of the individual in conditions of uncertainty and social transformation. The relevance of the study stems from the increasing psycho-emotional strain on students of higher education institutions amidst contemporary social challenges, particularly martial law, socio-economic instability, and transformations in the educational environment. It has been established that these factors contribute to an increased risk of emotional burnout, which negatively affects academic performance, motivation to study and the general mental state of students. The study conducts a theoretical analysis of the relationship between the level of resilience and manifestations of emotional burnout, characterises the main structural components of resilience (emotional, cognitive, behavioural), and identifies their role in the process of overcoming stressful situations. The scientific novelty of the study lies in a comprehensive approach to considering resilience as a systemic protective resource that ensures the prevention and overcoming of emotional burnout among students in the face of social challenges. The study found that a high level of resilience correlates with a reduction in symptoms of emotional exhaustion, depersonalisation and loss of academic motivation. The study justifies the introduction of psychological and pedagogical techniques aimed at developing psychological resilience, emotional self-regulation and value- and meaning-based orientations among students. It is noted that the development of resilience is an important factor in ensuring the psycho-emotional well-being and successful adaptation of higher education students.