Risk factors and protective resources in resilience to a terroristic threat

The paper presents the results of a comprehensive study on the experience of terroristic threat. This study appeals to the integrative psychological concepts that determine the psychological resilience to a terroristic threat. The resilience of the population in the face of the terroristic threat is investigated in Russian psychology for the first time. Symptoms of psychopathology and posttraumatic stress disorder are considered as risk factors that may increase sensitivity to the experience of a terroristic threat. The components of the psychological well-being are reviewed as resources maintaining the resilience of a person and supporting to cope with the negative consequences of terroristic threat experience. The research results show the negative associations between the terroristic threat experience and the majority of psychological well-being components (positive relationships with other people, autonomy, management of the environment, personal growth, goals in life, self-acceptance and affective balance). An intense terroristic threat experience is associated with a high level of symptoms of psychopathology and posttraumatic stress disorder. Women have a more intense level of terroristic threat experience, less resilience to an information about terrorism, anticipate new terror attacks to a greater extent and feel more distressed than men. This study reveals an age-related specific nature, i.e. elder respondents demonstrate more intense terroristic threat experience, more posttraumatic stress symptoms, and less psychological well-being. Differences between subjects with high and low levels of terroristic threat experience are discussed. The resilient persons have less psychopathologic symptoms and high psychological well-being in general. These respondents describe their social relationships as more positive. They strive for autonomy and self-development, have life goals, and it is easier for them to cope with everyday tasks.