Structural specifics of the semantic sphere in orphaned adolescents

Abstract

This article presents the results of an empirical study aimed at revealing the content and structure of the semantic sphere in orphaned adolescents. Despite extensive research on the psychological content and consequences of parental deprivation, several aspects remain unexplored. A noticeable gap is found in the issue of the relationship between parental deprivation and the meaning-making sphere of orphaned adolescents. The semantic sphere is conceptualized as a dynamic system that forms naturally within the personality structure, reflecting the meaningfulness and significance of lived experiences and serving the function of mediating interaction with the surrounding reality. The study proposes a structural and functional model of the semantic sphere. It integrates cognitive, reflexive, positive-affective, and negative-affective components. Each component possesses distinct content and regulates the risk of maladaptation. The study involved 100 orphaned adolescents aged 15–17 years. The methodological complex was based on the organizational requirements of comparative and integrative approaches, as well as the ethical principles of psychodiagnostics. The methodological battery included questionnaires and observational charts. The findings reveal the ability of orphaned adolescents to search for meaning in various aspects of life, existence, experienced crises, and in their satisfaction with communication and self. Orphaned adolescents focus on the search for life meaning. Their semantic sphere was found to be highly differentiated, comprising seven integral characteristics. A leading role is attributed to negative affectivity. The process of meaning-making in these adolescents involves comprehending personal crisis experiences, their own communicative and social problems, and feelings of loss. This negative affectivity is associated with indicators of addictive and antisocial behavior. The paper outlines the prospects for further research on the impact of parental deprivation on the adolescent semantic sphere. The described characteristics of the meaning-making sphere in adolescents who have experienced and realized crises of parental deprivation pave the way for establishing a reflexive dialogue with them.