PSYCHOLOGICAL FEATURES OF ADOLESCENT CONFLICT BEHAVIOR

Abstract

The article is devoted to the scientific analysis of the problem of conflict behavior of the individual, specifically focusing on the adolescent period. In modern society, there is a clear trend towards increased tension and the emergence of various conflict situations in various spheres of human activity. In adolescence, the problem of conflict becomes particularly important, as this stage is characterized by intense personality development and the transition from childhood to adulthood, often accompanied by crises. The study emphasizes that conflict can perform both constructive and destructive functions, acting as a source of personality development or leading to interpersonal disruption. The empirical part of the study was conducted on the basis of the Uzhhorod Lyceum “Leader”, involving 43 students of grades 8–9. The diagnostic stage used methods by D. Johnson and F. Johnson, as well as K. Thomas, to determine strategies for resolving conflict situations. According to the results, it was found that the majority of students (42–44%) prefer the “Cooperation” strategy. The study revealed that adolescents in this sample rarely tend to avoid conflicts or yield, as they prioritize maintaining positive relationships while achieving their goals. Compromise was the second most frequent choice (26–28%). The results indicate that adolescents are generally inclined towards constructive actions, trying to find alternative solutions that take into account the interests of all conflicting parties. The article concludes that conflict should be viewed as a space of opportunities for forming new cultural patterns of interaction that help overcome contradictions and establish norms of social coexistence.