STILL POST-SOVIET? WHAT IS LEFT OVER FROM SOVIET ATTITUDES TO FORM MODERN ATTITUDES TOWARDS VOLUNTEERING?
Volume 93, Issue 2 (2024), pp. 180–198
Pub. online: 30 December 2024
Type: Article
Open Access
Published
30 December 2024
30 December 2024
Abstract
This study examines the influence of historical imprints on attitudes towards volunteering among Lithuanians. Using imprinting theory, we explored how the historically evolved Soviet imprints have influenced modern attitudes toward formal volunteering. Quantitative data analysis (N=358) revealed that some Soviet imprints might have decayed, while some were strong enough to survive until modern times to affect attitudes towards formal volunteering. This study examined three Soviet attitudinal imprints: negative attitudes towards non-governmental organisations, external power primacy, and the authoritarian outlook. The results showed that while some imprints might have decayed, some have survived until today. Our findings underscore the enduring impact of Soviet imprints, and suggest that addressing these historical influences is crucial for enhancing volunteering among citizens of post-Soviet regions.