Values of the Population in Depressed Territories in the Context of Regional Administration

Abstract

In Russia, there are a number of depressed areas that lag behind other regions in socio-economic indicators. The use of the term “depressed territories” primarily in economic studies highlights a lack of sociological research on the management aspect that takes into account the socio-cultural characteristics of the population. This study employs the theory of public values as a theoretical framework, positing that citizens’ attitudes are interconnected with the activities of government authorities. The aim of the research is to identify the distinctive socio-cultural characteristics of the populations in depressed territories that may influence management processes. To achieve this, a survey was conducted among 600 residents of both depressed and non-depressed municipalities with similar characteristics; a quota sampling method was applied, ensuring gender and age distribution within the population. The findings reveal that residents of depressed areas are more committed to values of survival and traditionalism. They exhibit less independence and greater trust compared to those living in non-depressed territories, demonstrating a need for group belonging and possessing closed social capital. The attitudes of residents in depressed municipalities — characterized by a lack of long-term planning, moderation in life, renunciation of ambition, a preference for psychological comfort, and passive waiting for improvements in their quality of life — are less conducive to overcoming adversity. In these areas, there is higher support for government policies among the population, alongside a recognized need for societal stability and adherence to centralized decision-making. The results contribute to the theory of public values by revealing differences in values among municipalities with similar characteristics and determining the potential influence of these values on the socio-economic development of the region. The practical significance of this work lies in developing proposals for utilizing the population’s value orientations in managing depressed territories. Future research prospects include applying the methodology used in this study to other economic regions in Russia.