Fostering of traditional family values: laws, facts, suggestions
- DOI
- 10.5922/vestnikhum-2026-1-8
- Pages
- 105-122
Abstract
Based on a review of the contemporary state family policy of the Russian Federation regarding the formation of family values, the article presents specific proposals for its improvement, using Saint Petersburg as a case study. The novelty of the study lies in a comprehensive approach that combines the analysis of the legal framework, statistical data, and sociological surveys to evaluate the value-based component of family policy within the specific context of Saint Petersburg. The methodology includes the analysis of scholarly literature (sociological theories of the family) and legal documents, secondary analysis of official statistics, and examination of data from sociological surveys of Saint Petersburg residents. The study concludes that, despite the extensive legal framework, the effectiveness of implemented measures in Saint Petersburg cannot be unambiguously assessed. First, negative trends are identified—such as declining marriage and birth rates, an increase in serious crimes among minors, and a rise in divorces—coexisting with positive developments, including the growth of large families, the maintenance of high educational achievements among schoolchildren, and the high status of children and the family in public opinion. Second, the article proposes new practice-oriented mechanisms to strengthen the family institution, such as the development of family mentorship programs, the creation of family education centers, and the implementation of targeted cultural and recreational projects. The study argues that enhancing the effectiveness of family policy requires a shift from primarily demographic and material approaches to a comprehensive strategy aimed at forming and supporting the value foundations of the family. The high public demand for family values observed in Saint Petersburg provides a favorable environment for implementing the proposed initiatives, which are expected to increase the number of stable family unions, improve parental competence, and strengthen intergenerational ties.