Family Life, Relationships, and Social Change – A Roundtable Discussion at the Science Expo
As part of the Family and Science roundtable discussion at the Science Expo in the Millenáris Park, researchers explored the dynamics of family and couple relationships, the situation of single individuals, the role of communication, and the importance of mental health. They also presented recent findings from related research projects.
The discussion, moderated by Prof. Dr. Ágnes Engler, Head of the Education Research Centre at KINCS, featured contributions from Dr. Irén Rövid, Presidential Advisor at KINCS. Dr. Rövid emphasized that singlehood is usually neither desired nor consciously chosen lifestyle. According to KINCS research, Hungarian society remains fundamentally family-oriented: with most people aspiring to have a partner and children. Nevertheless, the latest census data show an increase in the proportion of single and childless individuals.
András Székely, Senior Research Fellow at KINCS, highlighted that the formation and functioning of relationships are strongly influenced by the discrepancy between familial role models and broader societal expectations — an inconsistency that couples often struggle to recognize. He pointed out that new, less stable patterns of commitment are emerging today, with consumer culture also leaving its mark on intimate relationships.
Péter Uhljár, Research Analyst at KINCS, drew attention to the fact that the meaning of family and marriage has undergone profound historical transformation: while in agrarian societies these institutions were primarily based on material interests, they increasingly represent emotional communities today. Interestingly, the division of labour between men and women has become much more equal between 2002 and 2022 — partly because many tasks traditionally performed by women are now being replaced by external services and technological solutions.
KINCS also participated as an exhibitor throughout the three-day event.
