FRIENDS, STRANGERS, OR FOES? NEIGHBORHOOD RELATIONSHIPS OF RESIDENTS IN APARTMENT BUILDINGS

Abstract

This article examines the socio-cultural phenomenon of "neighborhood" as a manifestation of social interaction between people in a local area of ​​residence. The aim of this article is to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the types and intensity of social interactions between neighbors. It also examines the characteristics of social interactions between residents of apartment buildings depending on the neighborhood scope (staircase landing, floors "above" and "below" the apartment, entrance hall, residential building). The social practices of neighborly relationships are analyzed depending on the socio-demographic characteristics of residents and their property rights to residential premises. The findings presented in this article are based on the materials of an empirical sociological study of neighborly relationships and the social activity of residents of apartment buildings (questionnaire survey, May 2022, 400 residents of apartment buildings, Tyumen). It was determined that residents of apartment buildings over 60 years of age, men, and apartment owners have the greatest satisfaction with neighborly relationships. Meanwhile, tenants show minimal engagement in neighborly practices and a lack of interest in establishing and maintaining relationships with neighboring apartment residents. The closest social contacts are observed between neighbors on the landing and with residents of apartments above and below. Less than half of respondents report being irritated by certain actions of their neighbors. However, they tend to avoid focusing on these behaviors, not wanting to jeopardize long-term relationships with their neighbors. The practical significance of the data obtained lies in assessing the scale and variety of neighborly interactions and analyzing the factors that influence neighborhood social practices and the risks associated with them.