Family values and practices in the discourse of the Tatars and Russians living in Tatarstan

Introduction. Now that family values are both the most significant and the most debated ones, the issue of the socio-cultural foundations of the corresponding norms and actions is of particular importance. Based on exploratory research, the article considers the most general nature of the influence of the ethnic factor on family values, statuses, and practices of the Tatars and Russians living in Tatarstan, and identifies the place of the family in the system of their life priorities. Materials and Methods. The study adopted the value-oriented approach and certain provisions of the theory of transformation of a traditional society into a modern one. It was based on the texts of 30 in-depth interviews given by the families of urban and rural Tatars and Russians living in the region. Most of the interviews were conducted in two-generation family homes, which made it possible to create a confidential atmosphere of conversation, and to imagine how the family members really interact, as well as to cover several generations of interviewees thus increasing their number. Results. The performed analysis of the texts has revealed that, while the family tops the hierarchy of values of both Tatars and Russians, there have been differences in the content of family values and in their interrelation with other ones. Among the Tatars, all other value orientations are linked the family, solution of economic problems being an integrating factor, and extended kinship relations being significant. For ethnic Russians, work, self-development, and hobbies have a separate and independent meaning; the family tends to be united by the ideas of friendship and mutual understanding, while close kindred ties are mainly maintained with the nuclear family. Discussion and Conclusion. The study made it possible to draw conclusions and assumptions about the common features and differences in family values and practices of the Tatars and Russians living in Tatarstan, due to the ethno-confessional specifics of cultures and the peculiarities of their social dynamics. Prospects for the study of family priorities are associated with further research into the interaction of the culturally related norms and values of the ethnic communities. This may become a basis for the development of their mutual understanding and cooperation.