Upgrading the institution of family through the lens of its structural and functional modifications

Abstract

Subject. As the social life transforms, the institution of family is getting more modern and demonstrates new forms and changes in the principal functions. The process induces the emergence of various social problems associated with the economic and financial status of family, psychoemotional tensions, asocial behavior of parents and children. Objectives. We herein analyze modernization processes of the institution of family as the social life transforms, and evaluate it in terms of its structural and functional changes. The study offers specific actions to be performed for strengthening the institution of family. Methods. The study is based on a set of general scientific methods, including logic, systems, comparative, functional, statistical and sociological analysis. Results. Development processes of family are shows to be controversial in the Russian society. They are not always definite, demonstrating some differences. As the market relations and private ownership rapidly evolve, many family values, traditions and standards perish, while new one being just in their infancy. Marital relations, institutions of kinship, parenthood go beyond the idea of family, thus ultimately loosing family values, which used to be very significant. In new socio-economic circumstances, family serves for many various purposes, which often diverge from traditional ones. Conclusions and Relevance. In Russia, the modern family undergoes the modernization process. Family acquires new forms and changes its key functions, which should be further studied. Marital relations, institutions of kinship, parenthood go beyond the idea of family, thus ultimately undermining marital values, which used to be very important. Family dysfunctions, unstable relationships of spouses can be seen in both wealthy and less financial protected families. To support and strengthen the institution of family, we propose specific socio-economic, socio-psychological and socio-medical actions.