Peculiarities of psychological preparation of young athletes under the conditions of martial law
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: The article provides a comprehensive review of the peculiarities of psychological preparation for young athletes and its vital significance during the specialized basic training stage, particularly within the context of the prolonged conditions of martial law in Ukraine. A synthesis of specialized scientific literature indicates that modern Ukrainian athletes have to train not only under intense competition, ultra-high physical loads, and constant pressure from internal and external professional requirements but also under the heavy influence of wartime realities. These include frequent air raid alerts, regular training interruptions, and significantly disrupted regimes of rest and sleep. Such circumstances substantially increase overall stress levels, leading to emotional exhaustion and heightening the risk of professional burnout and other negative consequences of chronic overstrain caused by the loss of a safe environment and social uncertainty. The findings of this study demonstrate that to improve the performance and subjective well-being of athletes aged 16–19 years under these specific conditions, it is crucial to consider more than just the technical quality of their sports training. Effective psychological support must integrate age-specific psychological characteristics with a deep understanding of the psychological impact of living in a prolonged war zone.
Author: Kateryna Velko
Language: English
Subfield: Developmental and Educational Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7204467972