CULTURAL ASPECTS OF SELF COMPASSION IN UKRAINIAN CONTEXT: ADAPTING NEFF’S MODEL TO WAR AND POST-TRAUMA CONDITIONS

Abstract

The article examines the psychological phenomenon of self-compassion as a mechanism for overcoming traumatic experiences and enhancing stress resilience within the framework of Neff’s scientific concept. It is noted that national and cultural traditions in Ukraine often perceive self-compassion negatively, misinterpreting it as self-pity. Conversely, in cross cultural psychology, self-compassion is understood as an organic blend of common humanity, self kindness, and mindfulness. Thus, the aim of the research is to analyze cultural challenges and develop adaptations that transform self-compassion from a «soft skill» into a «survival competence». To achieve this objective, a range of theoretical and interpretive methods were employed, including analysis, synthesis, comparison, generalization, classification, abstraction, and concretization. The obtained findings were aligned within the frameworks of ethnopsychological and comparative approaches. Based on the analysis of concepts by Gilbert, P., Kuchar, A. L. & Neff, K. D., Linetsky, I., Grinberg, K., & Granot, M., it was determined that Neff’s model of self-compassion requires not only cultural but also ethnopsychological adaptation. The proposed model serves as a vital resource-oriented technology for treating traumatic disorders, preventing various forms of burnout, and enhancing stress resilience. Considering the specific features of the Ukrainian psychological profile, the adaptation of Neff’s model must involve shifting the emphasis from «Softness» to «Support,» utilizing collective experience and ideas of national humanism, and teaching the distinction between immediate physical threats and the anticipation of threats, without demanding impossible «calmness» during danger.