Change of perceptions of the image of the future among youth

Abstract

This article describes the results of research carried out among youth for determining the perceptions of the image of the future. The image of the future is a dynamic psychological state that sets a vector of life and self-organization of individuals, and serves as the basis for projecting the development of personality and resources, essential for realization of its life path. Leaning on the analysis of existing perceptions of the image of the future suitable for youth, it was established that it relates to the perception of life as a dependent on the subject of activity, which correlates with independence, self-control, acceptance of social roles and emotional self-esteem. The author assumes that there are three key strategies in description of the image of the future for young men and women: planning, description of emotional relationships, and self-determination. The research involved total of 1,538 respondents (610 male and 928 female, aged 14-28. The classical methodology developed by I. S. Kon “Me in 5 Years” served as the main method for this study. Images of the future for young men and women contain both, different and similar strategies. Young women receiving vocational education see their future through planning, and the ones studying in high school and universities – through self-determination. Young men who study in high school and universities see their future through emotional relationships, and students of vocational education – through self-determination. This implies that namely the level of educational institution (school, university, vocational education) allows forming certain gender differences in the image of the future.