THEORETICAL ANALYSIS OF THE STUDY OF EMOTIONAL INDIFFERENCE OF FAMILY MEMBERS AND ITS IMPACT ON FAMILY INTERACTION AND FAMILY WELL-BEING

Abstract

The article provides a theoretical analysis of scientific views on the phenomenon of «emotional indifference» in psychological science. It has been established that this issue is in the field of view of both domestic and foreign researchers, and is defined as a certain state of a person when he does not react to emotional stimuli or shows a minimal emotional response to events, people or his own feelings. It has been determined that this condition can manifest as a lack of joy, sadness or fear in certain situations when they are expected, due to low empathy for others; decrease in the desire to be a participant in any communication and interaction. The interpretation of emotional indifference according to the family is revealed and the relationship between family functions and emotional indifference of its members is presented.
The scientific positions of scientists regarding the identification and disclosure of the causes of emotional indifference in families have been analyzed. Scientists have identified such causes as: chronic stress or trauma (war, losses, financial difficulties); psychological burnout of parents – low emotional resource; conflicts and unresolved issues (alienation, resentment, unexpressed emotions); low emotional intelligence – difficulties in recognizing one’s own and other people’s feelings; cultural or family patterns – traditions of «not showing emotions» or «keeping your distance». Determinants that affect manifestations of emotional indifference between family members can be various factors (neurobiological, psychological, social – stress or trauma; depression; mental disorders; neurotic defense mechanisms). Scientists define the consequences that worsen human life as follows: deterioration of social interaction; «coldness» and «indifference» in relationships, which can lead to conflicts; decrease in quality of life and satisfaction with daily activities.
The authors considered the proposals of researchers to reduce the manifestation of negative moments in the functioning of the modern family, and proposed effective strategies, ways to reduce manifestations of emotional indifference in families, because it is a systemic phenomenon that negatively affects family interaction and psychological well-being, manifesting itself in a decrease in the level of family cohesion, a violation of the emotional security of children, the formation of maladaptive attachment models and a deterioration of the psychological well-being of members family.