Balance and disbalance of subjectness in virtual space

The purpose of the article is to analyze the concept of balance and disbalance of subjectness. Background. The rapid growth of the virtual space and its integration into everyday life pose challenges to the scientific community regarding the transformation of individual and group subjectness. The digital age creates both new opportunities for development and risks of limiting or losing subjectness potential, particularly in the context of hybrid and real wars and the integration of large language models (LLMs, AI). Methods. Theoretical and methodological analysis of the problem. A systematic analysis of disbalances and disorders of subjectness in the virtual space was conducted, along with an examination of approaches to their prevention and correction. Results. Studying disbalances and disorders of subjectness in virtual space is critically important for mental health in the digital age and in wartime conditions. Virtuality can simultaneously serve as a resource for realizing subjectness potential and as a threat to its loss, especially with the integration of AI. Definitions of “subjectness balance”, “subjectness disbalance”, and “subjectness disorder” were proposed. A broad spectrum of subjectness disbalances and disorders was systematized. It was determined that the virtual space becomes a resource for development if there is harmonious balancing, conscious management of online presence, and preservation of critical thinking. The proposed subjectness-centered approach to counseling opens new prospects for preventing and overcoming digital addictions and fostering personal development. Conclusions. Maintaining a balance of subjectness is a key factor in personal success, effectiveness, and harmonious development in the digital world. A systematic approach to preventing and correcting subjectness disbalances requires the joint efforts of researchers, practicing psychologists, educators, IT specialists, as well as government and public administration. The virtual space can be a safe and resourceful environment for the development of subjectness if digital technologies are used consciously and in a balanced manner.