I conducted a thirty minute interview with a native Bosnian. It was a general interview aimed at family, values, and lifestyle. I want to emphasize that my descriptions are general. It is my intention to delve deeper into some of the trends I found
According to her, the family is primarily seen as a unit of economic support. The ideal family is one that is affluent, obedient to the laws of the land, raises children who are married off and able to support their families, holds a great reputation among friends and families. The gender roles in Bosnia could be considered traditional. The father is expected to be the breadwinner and protector of the family. Family reputation is closely correlated to the economic success and general reputation of the man. The mother is expected to cook, clean, and take care of the children. The relationship between mother and father tends to be more of mutual respect than American notions of an affectionate loving couple. Siblings tend to be closest to one another, providing the emotional and moral support that does not typically come from their parents. Children are raised to be well-mannered, obedient, and fit for traditional marriage roles.
American families tend to be so busy, that family time sometimes needs to be set aside if it's every going to happen. In Bosnia, families apparently have so much leisure, that family time simply happens. Guests pass in and out all day for tea and cookies. There is chat, leisure, and plenty of gossip and cigarette smoking. Life there is very "chill." Time comes and goes. This reminds me a little bit of life in the American country.
Below are two questions I'll ask some other Bosnians?
Where does this traditional family model for success come from? I know the American version comes from Victorian models...
What is this preoccupation with reputation? This is so pervasive in Asian cultures too.
What is the difference between Bosnian village people and Bosnian city people?
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