The most recently published issue of the Review of Sociology (of the Hungarian Sociological Association) showcases the significant contributions of the Youth Research Institute's director, Levente Székely PhD, and head of research, Georgina Kiss-Kozma PhD, as guest editors. This issue, titled "Two Decades of Large Sample Youth Research in Hungary," is a comprehensive examination of the large sample youth survey in Hungary over the past twenty years, underscoring its pivotal role in its field.
This particular issue is centered around the aforementioned extensive youth surveys conducted every four years since the early 2000s: Youth 2000, Youth 2004, Youth 2008, Hungarian Youth 2012, Hungarian Youth 2016, and Hungarian Youth 2020. Each wave has previously resulted in the publication of detailed reports, yet this edition of Review of Sociology marks the first English-language summary of these pivotal studies, aiming to bridge a significant gap in both domestic and international understanding of Hungarian youth.
A critical aspect of these surveys has been the consistency of the questionnaires which ensures that the results of all waves are compatible and can be effectively compared. The last two surveys alone interviewed a total of 12,000 respondents aged 15-29, including 4,000 young people from ethnic Hungarian communities in neighboring countries. This expansive dataset offers a comprehensive picture of Hungarian youth throughout the Carpathian Basin. Notably, the latest survey was conducted during the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in late 2020, an external factor that is crucial to consider when interpreting the results.
Collectively, each study offers a multifaceted view of Hungarian youth, though they each have something to convey on their own. The opening study, "The History of the Hungarian Large Sample Youth Survey," traces the evolution of this series of research. "Tomorrow’s Parents? – Exploring the Fertility Intentions of Young Adults in Hungary" examines the childbearing plans of young Hungarians, a vital issue given the nation's current low fertility rate.
Emigration intentions among Hungarian youth are explored in another study, highlighting the demographic and social traits of those considering emigration, crucial to understanding the societal and economic impacts. Another paper, "Examination of Young People’s Vulnerability in the Context of the Hungarian Youth Survey 2000-2020," identifies the most vulnerable groups among Hungarian youth in terms of education and labor market outcomes.
The study "Changes and Factors Associated with the Social Stratification and Material Situation of Hungarian Minority and Majority Youth (2001-2020)" delves into the labor market positions and socio-cultural stratification of ethnic Hungarian youth in neighboring countries. Finally, "Crisis Perception and Experience of Resilience Among Young People in the Early and Late Stages of the Coronavirus Epidemic" examines how young people navigated the pandemic's challenges and their resilience compared to older demographic groups.
By focusing on select key themes, this publication spearheaded by the Youth Research Institute’s leadership will enhance and expand the understanding of Hungarian youth. This publication is a testament to the Youth Research Institute's dedication to advancing youth research and its impact on shaping informed social policies. For more detailed insights, we encourage you to explore the latest issue of Review of Sociology .
