SOCIAL-EMOTIONAL AND ETHICAL LEARNING AND NONVIOLENT COMMUNICATION AS FACTORS OF PERSONAL SELF-DEVELOPMENT AND SELF-REALIZATION IN CONTEMPORARY SOCIETY

Abstract

The aim of this study is to provide a scholarly justification of the significance of Social, Emotional, and Ethical Learning (SEEL) and Nonviolent Communication (NVC) as key factors in shaping emotionally mature, socially responsible, and self-developing individuals within the context of contemporary society. This context is marked by rapid change, increasing psychological and social challenges, and a pressing need to cultivate skills for peaceful coexistence.The methodological framework of the study is based on an interdisciplinary approach that integrates theoretical analysis of contemporary scholarly literature in psychology, pedagogy, and social work; comparative analysis of international and national experiences in implementing SEEL and NVC; and empirical data from pilot educational projects conducted both in Ukraine and abroad. The authors draw on meta-analytical reviews, national educational strategies, international reports (e.g., UNICEF, Education Endowment Foundation), and regulatory documents (such as the Law of Ukraine «On Education» and the National Strategy for the Development of Education 2021–2031).The scientific novelty of the study lies in a systematic analysis of SEEL and NVC as complementary approaches to the development of socially mature personalities amidst ongoing educational and social transformations. For the first time in Ukrainian academic discourse, SEEL and NVC are conceptualized as strategic components not only of educational but also of social development, taking into account the needs of post-traumatic adaptation, digital challenges, and the growing emotional vulnerability of youth. The study emphasizes the need to integrate ethical and communicative practices into educational environments to foster safe spaces that support the psycho-emotional well-being of all participants in the learning process.The study’s findings indicate that Social, Emotional, and Ethical Learning, in combination with Nonviolent Communication, plays a crucial role in developing individuals’ capacities for reflection, empathy, constructive conflict resolution, and responsible decision-making. Empirical data from pilot programs in Ukraine (e.g., the "School Without Conflicts" project) and the analysis of international experience confirm the positive impact of these approaches in reducing aggression, enhancing academic motivation, and strengthening psycho-emotional well-being and social adaptation. NVC, as both an educational and social practice, fosters the development of skills for peaceful interaction and value-oriented communication–an especially urgent need in the context of war and the post-war transformation of Ukrainian society.The integration of SEEL and NVC into Ukraine’s educational and social service systems should be considered a vital element of strategic reform. Promising directions for further research include the study of mechanisms for training professionals (educators, social workers, psychologists) to implement SEEL and NVC programs, the development of indicators for monitoring the formation of socio-emotional competencies, and the analysis of the long-term impact of such programs on civic engagement and social cohesion.