The phenomenon of social dependency in population assessments (by a case study of the Irkutsk region)

Social dependent practices in the social state functioning have become large-scale in nature. For modern Russia, it is relevant to restrict such practices. However, the solution to this problem is hampered by a lack of the reliable evidence-based data on the extent and content of social dependency and parasitism. The paper presents the findings of a survey of the population, which is a part of a large-scale empirical sociological study on social dependency at the regional level. Based on the questionnaire, the authors examine the attitude of the population of the Irkutsk region to the phenomenon under review and assess the prevalence of social dependency and parasitism. The research reveals a predominantly neutral and slightly negative attitude of the population towards such manifestations. The study notes the categories of the population that, according to respondents, are more prone to social dependency, including unemployed, disabled, and elderly people. The respondents believe that social dependency and parasitism are widespread practices in society. The research reveals the impact of gender and age characteristics of respondents on their opinion on social dependency: men and young people are more loyal rather than women and older people. The proposals are made to implement the economic and legal measures to reduce social dependency.