Digital adaptation of the individual to a system of uncertainty: levels of subjectivity and freedom

Abstract

The article considers the modern digitalized society as a multi-level system in conditions of uncertainty, functioning in the paradigms of VUCA and BANI. Purpose: to describe individual types of human adaptation to digital environments as indicators of levels of freedom and subjectivity of the individual in the conditions of the VUCA/BANI system. Research methods: repeated analysis and interpretation of data obtained within the framework  of human adaptation  to digitalization study(O. Ronzhes, 2025). The total sample of the study (March 2020 - October 2024) included 479 people aged 16 to 75 years. All subjects identified themselves as Ukrainians and are users of digital technologies.

The personality in such a system is treated as an active element capable of adaptation, freedom and subjectivity. Based on a psychophysiological experiment using EEG diagnostics and latent profile analysis (LPA), four profiles of individual adaptation to digital environments were identified: “Adaptive leaders”, “Balanced adapters”, “Adaptive novices” and “Vulnerable under pressure”. A typology of levels of subjectivity and types of freedom in digital systems is proposed, as well as a thematic comparison of adaptation profiles with levels of systemic uncertainty. The presented model allows us to understand better the features of the individual presence of a person in the digital environment, which acts as a component of the modern world of uncertainty. The results of the study have the potential for implementation in the field of digital education, UX design, psychological support for users of digital technologies and the development of inclusive digital ecosystems.