During the last four years, the world has undergone a significant transformation that has affected all spheres of life.
This especially applies to Ukrainian children, who, under the influence of the war, had to leave their homes for security reasons and settle abroad, as well as those who, due to circumstances, remain in Ukraine and are forced to adapt their lives to the conditions of the war.
The Wilson company, which employs several hundred Ukrainian seafarers to work on their ships, has a high level of responsibility and cares about its seafarers and the welfare of their families. After the military invasion of Ukraine, the company took measures to ensure that the families of Ukrainian seafarers could find safety abroad. At the end of 2023, during the annual negotiations between the MTWTU and Wilson, it was agreed to conduct a joint project, which will be directed to the analysis of the mental state of teenagers and children of seafarers who work in the company. The psychologist of the Staff Center Group, Julia Makoid, was involved in the process. Both categories of children and parents (those who stay in Ukraine and abroad) filled out the questionnaires specially developed for them.
The main results of the survey showed that teenagers from the marine environment today are concerned about several key aspects:
The modern world: 90% of respondents are concerned about when the war will end. Many families are forced to move several times, which makes it difficult to adapt to new conditions and reduces teenagers' sense of stability.
Interaction with other people: 50% of teenagers note feelings of anxiety and negative emotions due to constant changes in residence.
Family relationships: 40% of teenagers said they admire their parents. Family is still a source of inspiration for many teenagers.
Dreams and interests: 100% of respondents have dreams and a clear idea of what new knowledge they want to acquire. They want to improve their lives, achieve success, visit new countries, and develop new skills.
The study demonstrated teenagers' high activity and diversity of interests, which is an essential sign for adults. In conditions of uncertainty and rapid change, it's important to support young people, inspire them, and help them achieve their goals and dreams.
Thanks to this project, there is an opportunity to adapt assistance programs better, considering seafarers' children's current needs and wishes. It will be the project's next stage, the implementation of which has already begun.
