The formation of patriotic self-identification among Russian youth: the role of universities and the urban sociocultural environment

Abstract

Introduction  . In preserving the stability of any state when confronted with foreign policy challenges, the formation of a culture of citizenship among young people plays a crucial role. Free access to information and public debate can lead to the fragmentation of historical memory and the transformation of patriotism. This study is dedicated to assessing the influence of the educational environment and urban social space on students’ patriotic self-identification, regarded as one of the most significant outcomes of educational efforts in higher education institutions.  Aim  . The present study  aims  to critically evaluate how the educational environment and the urban sociocultural context influence the patriotic consciousness of young people, identifying the organisational and structural solutions most effective in shaping students’ patriotic self-identification.  Methodology and research methods  . The article analyses data from the fifth wave of the nationwide study “Russian Students on the Great Patriotic War” (2025; cluster sampling incorporating elements of random selection,  n  = 19,232). Students from 82 universities across 29 cities in the Russian Federation were surveyed.  Results  . It has been established that patriotic self-identification is characteristic of the majority of Russian students, while 18% do not consider themselves patriots. Within the semantic framework of patriotism in young people’s consciousness, emotional and cognitive components predominate. Among students who identify as patriots, the activity-based component is more pronounced. Students’ patriotic self-identification is more strongly influenced by the organisational and structural aspects of the educational environment. The urban environment also exerts an influence when students participate in mass commemorative practices associated with memorial urban spaces, monuments, and landmark events.  Scientific novelty  . The study expands the sociological theory of group national self-identification by examining not only the subject’s perception of the semantic characteristics of patriotism as a feeling, a body of knowledge, and specific activities but also by identifying the external socialisation factors that influence this perception.  Practical significance  . The research findings may prove useful in enhancing the organisation of educational activities within institutions, with the aim of increasing their effectiveness. The data could be of interest to specialists in youth social work, educators, and researchers specialising in youth and education.