Self-presentation tactics and specifics of self-organization of cadets in the aspect of psychological safety of the individual

Abstract

Abstract

Context and relevance. The article explores the components of self-organization and self-presentation tactics among cadets as predictors of their high level of psychological security. The study provides a comprehensive analysis of theoretical concepts related to these psychological phenomena, supplemented by empirical verification that establishes statistically significant correlational relationships. The findings hold substantial practical value for the professional training system of internal affairs personnel. An analysis of self-presentation tactics and self-organization features among first-year cadets at a law institute helps identify psychological resources and potential risks affecting the formation of psychological security in future law enforcement officers. The quantitative and qualitative data analysis can serve as a scientific foundation for designing a specialized adaptation program aimed at optimizing the professional socialization of young specialists in law enforcement agencies, with a focus on correcting and developing their behavioral patterns. The purpose of the study is to identify and systematize the specific features of self-organization and the self-presentation tactics used by cadets in the context of their psychological security index. The hypothesis posits that first-year cadets exhibit stable factor structures linking self-organization components and self-presentation tactics such as "exemplary model" and "entitlement," which contribute to a high level of psychological security during their adaptation to the academic environment. Methods and materials. The study involved 72 first-year cadets from the Police Training Faculty, specializing in "Ensuring Law and Order" (program code 40.03.02) at the Ufa Law Institute of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Russian Federation. The participants included 26 women and 46 men aged 17 to 19 years. Self-organization and self-presentation were assessed using the following questionnaires: "Diagnostics of Self-Organization Features" (A.D. Ishkov, N.G. Miloradova), "Self-Presentation Tactics Scale" (S. Lee, B. Quigley, modified by O.A. Pikuleva), and the level of psychological security was measured using the "Diagnostics of Personal Psychological Security" methodology (I.I. Prikhodko). Results. The study identified dominant self-presentation tactics, key parameters of self-organizational behavior, and developed a model explaining the relationship between self-organization components, self-presentation tactics, and a high level of psychological security among cadets. Conclusion. Based on the findings, designing optimal methods for psychological support and guidance will enable timely identification and correction of maladaptive self-presentation forms and self-organization disruptions, thereby ensuring more effective socialization of cadets into the professional community.