Introduction

The purpose of the edited collection Families in Economically Hard Times: Experiences and Coping Strategies in Europe is to provide readers with unique sociological knowledge on European families' experiences and behavioural strategies a decade after the economic crisis of the 21st century.

Significance of the Topic

The particular importance of the topic is conditioned by the reality the last economic crisis created. This new reality has diverged from the previous; and as new phenomena emerge, new coping strategies must also be created, as the old may not necessarily work. Hardships, functional solidarity, and issues of vital human needs—including practices of co-residence, sharing of money, and food acquisition—have been explored in Families in Economically Hard Times: Experiences and Coping Strategies in Europe.

Research and Objectives

Prominent scholars from Europe have joined efforts and, based on their latest research, seek to answer the question: how challenges emerged during recent economically hard times influenced the way of life of European families? The scholars of this book have used quantitative and qualitative research methodologies to create a varied and well-rounded approach to answering this very question.