“Of course, for us, the priority is not just the numbers that compile the ranking. As a foundation, our primary concern is the well-being of the child. In other words, how the data from such a comprehensive study influences management decision-making based on an evidence-based approach,” explains Elina Illarionova, Head of the Analytical Service at the Timchenko Foundation.

According to the Russian Child Well-Being Index for 2022, families with children are facing financial challenges, with only 50 % of surveyed children rating their family’s financial situation positively. Additionally, there is room for improvement in children’s access to leisure activities, as 55 % of surveyed children had not traveled anywhere in the past year. Children’s self-esteem is relatively low, with only 45 % of them reporting achievements and successes they take pride in. Furthermore, there is potential to enhance children’s motivation and interest in learning, as 70 % of the surveyed children expressed liking school, and 65 % found their lessons interesting.

These findings can serve as the foundation for practical initiatives. For example, in Altai Krai, day care groups were established for children from families facing financial difficulties, allowing parents the freedom to work or pursue further education, thereby increasing the family’s income. In Nizhnevartovsk, libraries have created spaces for children and teenagers to explore their interests. In Langepas, summer camps and evening leisure activities were organized, enabling children to discover new talents and interests. In the Tambov region, efforts are being made to boost children’s interest in learning through the expansion of Olympiad programs and the introduction of new supplementary education programs in various fields: arts, natural science, technology, tourism and local lore, social science and pedagogy, physical education and sports.

According to Elina Illarionova, the developers of the index collaborate with regional analytical groups, often based at universities, which can provide practical recommendations to specialized agencies. Both the Subjective and Statistical Indices of Child Well-Being are publicly accessible and can benefit a wide range of stakeholders, including regional and federal authorities, NGOs, social investors, the expert and scientific community, as well as parents and children.

“We strive to ensure that the index data is integrated into regulatory frameworks to lay the groundwork for child welfare programs. On top of that, we believe that presenting the research results should involve the active participation of children, and that the data should not only inform management decisions but also justify the need for child-centric policies,” emphasizes Elina Illarionova.

How does an individual’s perception of happiness and well-being relate to themselves? Are external circumstances in which a person lives influencing this perception? Why is it essential to incorporate subjective and psychological well-being into our evaluations? Answers to these questions can be found by delving into the realm of positive psychology.

When we mention “positive psychology,” most often, it conjures associations with affirmations, a positive mindset, and optimistic thinking. In other words, “think positively, and everything will be fine.” However, this is not the complete picture. Positive psychology, as a distinct branch of psychological knowledge and practice, explores the resources within individuals, their satisfaction, values, talents, and their connection to happiness. These discussions were also part of the Wellbeing-Focused Evaluation track.