The Current Ethnic and National Identity Crisis and Coping Strategies to Deal with it (Based on Interviews with Russians Living in Russia and those who Emigrated after 2022)

In the period of instability, transformation and uncertainty in Russian society, ethnic and civil identities may undergo an intensifying crisis. In this qualitative study we explore problems associated with civil and ethnic identities threats and crisis among Russians, as well as strategies for coping with it. Data collection took place from February to June 2023. The sample (n = 41) of the qualitative study consists of two subsamples: Russians living in Russia (n = 21) and Russians who emigrated or relocated from Russia after February 2022 (n = 20). Data collection was carried out through semi-structured interviews. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis method using Dedoose software. The results showed that the main threats to positive Russian identity were: dependence on evaluation from referent groups (mainly citizens of other countries), polarization of Russian society and internal conflict. The crisis of identity manifests itself in two opposite processes: disidentification / increased identification with a devalued group and is accompanied by strong emotional reactions. To overcome identity crisis Russians use avoiding strategies (de-identification, distancing), as well as coping strategies (re-evaluation, reaffirmation). Identity crisis is a long-term process that requires the attention of specialists, additional research and development of targeted social and educational programs aimed at promoting productive coping strategies.