ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the changing pattern of family relationships, particularly those between parents and children, through the voices and perspectives of mothers in one region of the Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Oblast. It describes the notion of change in family values and identity through two key themes: changes in family values as being dependent upon many factors, particularly external and internal factors, and the importance of cultural values. The chapter discusses what's and how's of parental roles in conveying the value of education and morality in the family. The stories that were told to children were not only to entertain or pass moral values; they were a means of bonding between the child, family and community. Responses to questions about the roles of mothers offered valuable information on the importance of educational roles of fathers and revealed that, in connection with the roles of mothers, the roles of fathers are equally important.
