Barash R.E. The Family of the Russia’s Citizens in an Era of Change: Traditional Values Facing the Challenges of the Modern World

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Abstract

The article provides the systematic analysis of the perceptions of the family values by the Russia’s citizens and their attitude toward various forms of marital unions and parenting models. The author analyses why modern young parents raising 1–2 children do not strive for having more children, despite the declared importance of family values and the nominal popularity of large families. Despite the influence of global trends in the transformation of family relations and a range of socio-economic challenges faced by Russian society – such as the pandemic, rising consumer prices, and the Special Military Operation (SMO) – starting a family and raising children remain fundamental values for Russians. The most common form of family union in Russian society continues to be officially registered marriage.Russians also consider childbearing an important life goal and express approval of large families, yet most limit themselves to having 1–2 children. The realization of childbearing plans is hindered by the nuclearization of families and high parenting standards: modern parents, who juggle work, financial provision, and child development without support from older generations, struggle to effectively distribute attention and resources among a larger number of children.