[The relationship between resilience and magical ideation in the elderly.]

Abstract

The article examines the relationship between magical thinking and resilience in elderly individuals. Magical thinking is considered as a psychological mechanism serving a protective function under conditions of stress and age-related crises associated with aging. An empirical study conducted on a sample of 92 elderly people (aged 59-74) revealed positive correlations between magical thinking indicators (measured by the MIS scale) and overall resilience (Rs=0,22, p<0,02), with resilience components such as self-efficacy (Rs=0,21, p<0,001), internal locus of control (Rs=0,20, p<0,001), and spirituality (Rs=0,32, p<0,001). The results suggest that belief in the supernatural and rituals may serve as a resource for maintaining psychological resilience in old age, complementing self-confidence and moral-ethical values. However, no correlation was found with adaptive strategies, indicating potential passivity in stress management. Special attention is given to the study's limitations related to sample characteristics (active, educated elderly individuals). The work emphasizes the need for further research on the role of magical thinking in self-regulation and stress coping within this age group.