An Integral Model for Structuring the Ecological Space of Family Relations in the Context of War

Abstract

The article provides a theoretical substantiation of forming an ecological space problem in family relationships under the conditions of the full-scale war in Ukraine. It is demonstrated that the war radically reshapes the living conditions of families, causing losses, forced displacement, economic instability, constant danger, and the disruption of social ties, all of which substantially intensify the psychological load on the family system. The appropriateness of using the concept of the “ecological space of family relationships” as an integral characteristic of interaction quality among family members is justified. This concept encompasses psychological safety, mutual respect, emotional support, opportunities for the authentic expression of experiences, and conditions for the development of each family member while maintaining family unity. The theoretical foundation of the integral model is grounded in the principles of systemic family therapy, the ecological approach, and the concept of family resilience, which together allow for a combined analysis of the family’s internal dynamics and the external wartime context. Four key parameters of the ecological space are distinguished: adaptive balance, need provision, transformational development, and the projective perspective of the future. Internal factors (values, emotional culture, communication patterns, role structures, boundaries, and support practices) and external factors (security situation, housing conditions, access to services, economic state, and social support) that determine the ecological quality of the family system are outlined. A diagnostic tool for assessing ecological quality – the «Family Relationship Ecological Index» – is presented. This instrument enables the construction of a family profile across the four parameters and the identification of risk zones and resources. The article also describes the structure of a socio-psychological family support program, which includes stabilization-diagnostic, resource-restorative, therapeutic-interventional, and project-oriented stages. The program is designed to enhance the ecological quality of family interactions, strengthen family resilience, and create a safe and resource-rich developmental environment.