EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION PATTERNS AND THEIR IMPLICATIONS FOR THE PSYCHOLOGICAL WELL-BEING OF SAILING CADETS

Abstract

Maritime education is characterized by a boarding system, a hierarchical structure, and high levels of physical and psychological stress. In this context, communication patterns play a crucial role in shaping the psychological well-being of cadets. This study aims to examine the dynamics of communication patterns among cadets and between cadets and teaching staff, and their implications for their psychological well-being. The research method used was descriptive qualitative with a case study approach at the Malahayati Maritime Polytechnic, Aceh. Data were collected through participant observation, semi-structured interviews, and documentation studies, with a total of 15 participants (10 cadets and 5 instructors). The results showed that communication patterns in the maritime education environment were dominated by one-way hierarchical communication, with horizontal and open communication only occurring in informal contexts. Cadets who experienced open and supportive communication showed significant improvements in aspects of psychological well-being, such as reduced stress (85%), increased motivation (82%), and a stronger sense of social connectedness (90%). Teaching staff have a strategic role in creating a healthy communication climate through providing constructive feedback and an empathetic approach. This study concludes that effective communication is a crucial foundation for developing cadet mental resilience and supporting a more humanistic transformation of maritime education. The results are expected to serve as a reference for developing communication policies and psychosocial services in maritime educational institutions