MANIPULATION THROUGH FEAR: THE INFORMATION FRONT OF THE UKRAINIAN–RUSSIAN WAR

Abstract

The article presents the phenomenon of fear as a powerful tool for manipulating the information space in the context of the Ukrainian–Russian war. The aim of the study is, based on an analysis of the characteristics of how cadets perceive informational content, to develop psychological recommendations for minimizing informational influence on consciousness. To achieve this goal, the main mechanisms and methods of using fear to influence public opinion, destabilize society, undermine morale, and create an atmosphere of panic are analyzed. Key narratives employed by Russian propaganda and informationpsychological operations to demoralize Ukrainian citizens and military personnel are considered, including intimidation through mass casualties, economic collapse, and betrayal at the highest levels of government and military command. The study analyzes methods of creating and disseminating fake news, manipulative videos, outofcontext testimonies, and distorted facts aimed at inciting fear and uncertainty. The psychological impact of such informational pressure on citizens is examined. Directions for minimizing the manipulative influence of fear are proposed, including the development of critical thinking and media literacy, increasing awareness of the psychological mechanisms of fear, forming selfregulation skills, and strengthening information security. The scientific novelty of the work lies in the study of the mechanisms of creating and using fear in informational content, taking into account the specifics of the national media field and cyberspace, as well as in the analysis of methods of its dissemination and perception by future officers in wartime conditions. Prospects for further research are outlined, related to the development and empirical testing of psychological and educational interventions.