Development of a Victim Position in Terminally Ill Convicts: The Role of Identification with the Role of the Patient

The article examines the peculiarities of the formation and manifestation of the internal position "I am sick" among convicts with incurable diseases in the penitentiary system. The factors influencing the attitude to the disease, such as the locus of control, social stigmatization, deformation of the time perspective and deprivation of hedonistic orientation, are analyzed. Typical emotional reactions (denial, anger, fear, depression, suicidal tendencies) and their connection with the adoption of the negative identity "I am sick" are described. The influence of the social environment and the need for psychocorrective work aimed at forming a positive attitude to life, reducing the level of suicidality and recidivism, as well as promoting the re-socialization of this category of people are discussed. Special attention is paid to the aspect of isolation and being in correctional institutions, the lack of a prospect of recovery increases the feeling of helplessness, which helps to consolidate the victim position. It is noted that this position is reinforced in the absence of emotional support and constructive interaction with society. The directions of psychological support have been identified in order to preserve the integrity of the individual and prevent destructive behavior. It emphasizes the need for an individual approach and the inadmissibility of leaving the convict alone with his feelings.