Skolt Saami socialization with special reference to the traditional eco-culture and on-going changes

The paper presents selected findings on socialization from a long-term psychological project conducted among the Skolt Saami living in the north of Finland. The data are based on participant observation, interviews (Schaefer's scale: school-aged children's perceptions of their parents, N = 64; and Block's Q-sorting method for their parents; interviews with almost all the adult Skolts; N approximately 500;) (1). The basic studies of the research project was carried out in 1967-74, and changes in socialization have been followed up in several phases later on. Comparisons are drawn with the majority culture of Northern Finland (61 children and their parents). Changes in ecology, economics and accultration have modified the roles of adult Skolts, affecting the men and women differently, and having repercussions for their paternal and maternal aspirations, power and influence. The changes were less confusing for the Skolt women than for the men whose role underwent a radical shift. Under these circumstances the wife was the head of the family, her responsibilities, power and influence increased. The developmental process in socialization has been characterized by a search for balance between the traditional life style and attitudes and the challenges and conflicts that arise from the culture and education of the majority.