PSYCHOLOGICAL CONSEQUENCES OF HOSTAGE SITUATIONS FOR PRIMARY AND SECONDARY VICTIMS

Hostage situations are among the most traumatic extreme events, exerting a long-lasting impact on the mental state of victims, their relatives, and society as a whole. The psychological consequences of such situations are manifested in the development of post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety disorders, and cognitive and behavioural impairments. In addition to the hostages themselves, their relatives experience significant stress, which can lead to the development of post-traumatic stress disorder. The public is also subject to emotional impact through the phenomenon of witness trauma and mass fears amplified by the media. This article examines the main psychological consequences of hostage situations, the mechanisms of their emergence, and their effects on different groups of victims. The necessity of a comprehensive approach to rehabilitation and social support for victims is emphasised, along with the importance of responsible media coverage of such events.