The study of spatial identities of the internally displaced persons by mapping of the place of residence narrative Problem definition

Transformation of identities of internally displaced persons (IDPs) is an important scientific problem, whose study has several important socio-psychological, political and psychological aspects. The problem simultaneously involves traumatization and rethinking of identity due to the resettlement and the armed conflict, on one hand, and development of the new specific identities of the IDPs on the other (for example, self-identification with a representative of the “IDPs community”). Therefore, the grounds for investigation of the transformation of identities of internally displaced persons involve both the importance of defining the concept in order to comprehend citizens' national identity and the need to study the transformation processes occurring here and now in the conditions of the ongoing conflict, which affects fellow citizens' lives. In the context of the study, spatial identity is defined as a feeling of one's belonging to a certain environment, which is developed in the process of identification with a certain place and the practices, rituals and elements of experience well-established in this particular place. The method of mental mapping is considered an effective tool to study spatial identities. It has enough potential to become the main method of studying spatial social identities of IDPs. Mental maps are quite visualized. They have reference to time, an open structure, and combine visual and verbal methods of communication. At the same time, mental maps are a valid means of exploring spatial mental representations and can be not only an effective way of investigating IDP's identities, but also a means of their transformation thanks to reflection and reframing one's experience in the process of an interview.