FAMILY VALUES, HEALTH, STABILITY AND WELL-BEING

(Results of a public opinion survey on the perception and celebration of the New Year)

The public opinion survey conducted shows that the New Year continues to retain its status as one of the most significant and anticipated holidays for the population, playing an important role in social and family life. Most citizens plan to celebrate the New Year, which indicates the stability of holiday traditions and their deep-rooted presence in public consciousness. The holiday is perceived not only as a calendar date, but also as a symbol of taking stock of the past year, renewal and hope for the future.

The emotional background surrounding the perception of the New Year is generally positive. The overwhelming majority of respondents approach the holiday with a joyful or calm mood and note the presence of a festive atmosphere. This indicates a stable positive social mood on the eve of the New Year and the continuing symbolic importance of the holiday as a source of positive emotions and expectations.

The ways in which the New Year is celebrated are predominantly home- and family-oriented. Most citizens plan to celebrate at home or at their parents’ home, surrounded by loved ones. This choice reflects people’s preference for comfort, safety and warm communication, as well as their desire to spend the holiday in a calm and familiar environment. Public and entertainment-oriented forms of celebration, such as restaurants, travel or mass events, are considerably less popular.

The social context of the celebration is also characterized by a strong family orientation. The New Year is perceived primarily as a family holiday that brings together several generations. Most respondents plan to spend New Year’s Eve with their families, emphasizing the importance of family values and stable social ties. These findings demonstrate the significant role of the family as a key social institution, particularly during festive and meaningful periods.

Associative analysis shows that, in the public consciousness, the New Year is primarily linked to non-material and emotional values. The most common associations include family interaction and the comfort of home, children’s joy, as well as the traditional festive table and national dishes. These elements shape the image of the New Year as a warm, heartfelt and unifying occasion.

The sources of hope and expectations on the eve of the New Year are also predominantly socially oriented. For most citizens, family and loved ones, as well as the health and well-being of relatives, remain the main sources of support. A significant proportion of respondents associate their hopes for the New Year with development and positive changes in the country, reflecting the presence of socially significant expectations and interest in socio-economic processes. Expectations are less often associated with individual achievements and material goals.

Expectations regarding the New Year holidays are generally focused on restoring energy and achieving emotional comfort. Citizens primarily look forward to spending time with their families, taking a break from everyday concerns and restoring their inner resources. For many, peace and the opportunity to stay at home in a familiar environment are particularly important. Active forms of recreation, travel and entertainment activities are viewed as less of a priority, reflecting the population’s preference for a calm and restorative holiday experience.

An analysis of the main New Year wishes shows that the population is primarily oriented toward fundamental life values. Respondents most often mention health for themselves and their loved ones, peace, calm and stability, as well as financial security and family well-being among their main wishes. These priorities reflect society’s aspiration for stability, safety and harmony at both the personal and social levels.

Overall, the survey results demonstrate a positive social outlook among the population on the eve of the New Year. The holiday is perceived as a time for unity, taking stock of the past year and forming hopes for the future. The predominance of family values and the focus on health, stability and peace indicate a strong societal demand for social harmony, sustainable development and well-being.