| Abstract [eng] |
The aim of the disseration is to investigate the subjective conception of family and family practices in nowadays Lithuanian society by combining the theoretical approaches of family practices and life course with the methodological tools of open concept of family, social construction and families‘ networks analysis. The main defensive thesis is that family is created not as much via marriage registration or blood kinship, but as via social relationships formed by family practices including communication, common interests, interpersonal support, etc. Defended statements are proved based on two empirical studies: (1) representative quantitative survey (2000 habitants of Lithuania that represent 1950–1955, 1960–1965, 1970–1975, 1980–1985 birth cohorts; empirical data collected at the end of 2011 and beginning of 2012), and (2) qualitative survey – in-depth interviews with 60 participants of previous quantitative survey (data collected in June-August, 2012). The contents consists of four main parts: „1. Family Conceptions and Practices“, „2. Historical Development of Family Discourse“, „3. The Theoretical Perspective of Family Discourse“, „4. The Diversity of Family Conceptions and Practices in Lithuania“. Conclusions and recommendations are given at the end. Practical benefits: the research results contribute to the formation and development of the social policy, particularly, family policy and on solidarity between generations. |
