Deviant Behavior Among Military Personnel: International Experience and Perspectives for Prevention in Ukraine

Abstract

This article examines the issue of preventing deviant behavior among servicemen of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, the relevance of which is determined by the conditions of modern warfare and social instability. The article analyzes the nature of delinquent behavior as a negative subtype of deviant behavior that violates the requirements of military discipline, the moral principles of service, and legal norms. It has been established that the emergence of deviant manifestations is caused by a combination of internal psychological factors (level of self-regulation, stress resistance, adaptability to extreme conditions) and external factors of service activity (combat operations, increased workload, living restrictions, information influence, and the unit’s socio-psychological climate).

It has been determined that the combined effect of these factors may increase the risk of disciplinary violations and negatively affect the morale of personnel. International experience in preventing deviant behavior in the U.S. and Israeli militaries has been analyzed, where systematic programs are implemented to develop resilience, self-control skills, and mutual support among military personnel. It has been established that the active role of commanders in fostering a healthy morale within units is one of the key factors in effective prevention.

Translated with DeepL.com (free version)The paper justifies the advisability of adapting certain international approaches to the operating conditions of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in order to reduce disciplinary risks, enhance the psychological resilience of service members, and ensure an adequate level of combat readiness among units.