Methodological and theoretical approaches to the study of coping behavior among female personnel of the Russian Federation's internal affairs agencies

Abstract

Subject of study: the psychological characteristics of coping behavior among female personnel of the Russian Federation's internal affairs agencies—individuals whose professional duties require them to overcome difficult, stressful, and extreme situations. The aim of this work is to review existing methodological approaches and theoretical concepts regarding coping behavior; this review serves as the foundation for an empirical study of the psychological characteristics of such behavior in female personnel and the subsequent development of a psychological training program designed to foster flexible coping strategies that enhance professional performance. Theoretical research methods employed include analysis, synthesis, comparison, and generalization. An analysis of domestic and international research highlights the relevance of coping behavior among working individuals, including male and female personnel in internal affairs and police agencies. Scientific research is expanding the understanding of this phenomenon within the framework of the commonly used term "coping" and the self-regulation paradigm developed by D.A. Leontiev, which views coping as a specific instance of self-regulation. Drawing on D.A. Leontiev’s multi-resource model of coping and considering the factors influencing Russian women's choice of service in internal affairs agencies, this study examines the coping behavior of female personnel. The findings will inform the development of a psychological training program aimed at fostering flexible, self-regulatory coping strategies for use in difficult, stressful, and extreme situations, thereby facilitating the effective accomplishment of professional tasks.