PSYCHOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE OF COPING STRATEGIES IN THE PROFESSIONAL ACTIVITIES OF INTERNAL AFFAIRS OFFICERS

Abstract

The professional activities of internal affairs officers demand high psychological resilience, emotional self-regulation, and the ability to make informed decisions in complex circumstances. This often involves high responsibility, time pressure, conflict, and emotional tension, leading to fatigue and emotional exhaustion. Therefore, studying coping strategies, which are cognitive, emotional, and behavioral methods for overcoming difficulties and adapting to environmental demands, is highly relevant. This research aims to theoretically analyze the psychological significance of coping strategies in the professional activities of internal affairs officers and identify key development areas. Drawing on Lazarus and Folkman's transactional theory of stress, the study highlights three main groups of coping strategies: problem-oriented, emotion-oriented, and social support-seeking. These strategies are crucial for psychological adaptation, maintaining emotional stability, preserving work capacity, and enhancing decision-making under professional stress. The development of effective coping behaviors requires a combination of problem-oriented approaches, emotional self-regulation skills, and constructive use of social support. This should be complemented by systematic professional-psychological training, including stress management, conflict resolution, and resilience building, as well as organizational measures to prevent professional stress and ensure officer recovery. Future empirical research on the interplay between coping strategies, perceived stress, and psychological resilience is recommended to inform training improvements.