Тенденции развития стиля жизни жителей провинции Литвы

Abstract

Market relations, globalization, rural development, urbanization, agricultural decline together with other factors is changing the lifestyle of the Lithuanian people. Social differentiation in society is deepening. The largest social differences are between the major cities and provincial population. In turn, social inequality in the provincial areas of the country is increasing. Effective social policy requires awareness of the current situation and changes in development. The article, using 1999-2004 and 2009-2010 data from studies of Kaunas district population (a total of more than 3800 people were surveyed), analyses the material life and home comfort conditions, cultural life and leisure, some value orientations. The positive changes in material well-being, household and culture were identified. The spread of mass media and communication tools was emphasised. Spiritual life has become more varied in form. On the other hand, social differences among the population have increased; despite the fact that many social problems were reduced they were not eliminated. Psychological attitude of the provincial population, trust in other people and their country is still low. This affects their health negatively. The key factor which determines social disparities in the country is the level of education. Higher education generally leads to higher consumption on material and spiritual level, greater self-confidence and better health too.