The Russian Psychological Society After 2022: Serving the State, Shaping Ideology, Weaponizing Science

KSE has released its new report on the Russian Psychological Society (RPS), the largest organization of psychologists in Russia, focusing on its activities after 2022. The study was prepared by psychologist Illia Poludonnyi and KSE experts Valeriia Palii and Olena Gapak. It highlights how the organization promotes narratives framing Russia’s war in Ukraine as “just” and “necessary” and spreads pro-military rhetoric among youth. The report also examines its collaboration with Russian authorities and sanctioned organizations.

The RPS demonstrates concerning alignment with the Russian government. Since February 24, 2022, at least 13 members of its Presidium have received state awards, and two members (Eduard Galazhinsky and Igor Gaydamashko) have signed a collective appeal in support of conducting “Special Military Operation” against Ukraine.

The RPS actively collaborates with sanctioned organizations, including the Defenders of the Fatherland Foundation and the Znanie Society, both under EU sanctions. Some RPS members hold positions in these organizations, and others, like the RPS’s Vice President, Yulia Shoigu, are on the sanction lists themselves. 

The RPS’s work with combatants primarily focuses on presenting the war as just and necessary. While claiming to “help people,” the Russian Psychological Society works with participants of the so-called “Special Military Operation” to reframe and cover the true impact of the war. They consistently downplay the risks of PTSD and other mental health consequences, while distorting scientific knowledge to serve the state’s agenda and deny the severity of the war’s impact on Russian society.

Several members of the RPS Presidium actively promote pro-war narratives among youth, framing the war as defensive. They integrate these ideas into educational programs and collaborate with organizations like the Defenders of the Fatherland Foundation and “YunArmia” (Young Army) to indoctrinate children with militaristic ideologies. This poses long-term risks to European security and the mental health of the children by preparing them for future conflicts.

The RPS leverages international academic cooperation to further its own agenda. While engaging with the international psychological community, the RPS seeks to legitimize its activities and promote its own views and goals within academic discourse. 

The activities of the Russian Psychological Society, which contribute to shaping pro-military ideology and weaponizing science, require immediate attention and assessment from the international scientific and professional community.