THE ROLE OF THE FAMILY IN THE CONSTRUCTION OF PLACE ATTACHMENT AMONG RURAL YOUTH

Abstract

Sense of belonging and the bonds established with the territory are important elements in the construction of rural youths' identities and life projects. Although the family is often mentioned as one of the dimensions of place attachment, its role in the continuity of connections with place remains insufficiently explored. In this context, the present study aimed to analyze the role of the family in the construction and intergenerational continuity of place attachment among rural youth, discussing its influence on the formation of the affective, cultural, identity-related, and symbolic bonds associated with the territory. This is a theoretical study based on a narrative literature review. The findings indicate that the family goes beyond being merely a specific category within this framework, performing a transversal function in the construction and maintenance of the bonds established with the environment, the community, traditions, and ways of life. Furthermore, the discussions highlight that the search for autonomy and the development of personal life projects do not necessarily imply the weakening of affective ties with the family and the territory. It is concluded that the family plays a central role in the intergenerational continuity of place attachment, contributing to the preservation and re-signification of the affective, cultural, and identity bonds built with rural spaces.