Cultural Wisdom Across Generations: Local Values and Parenting in Javanese Society

This study aims to examine how Javanese local wisdom—gotong royong, tepa selira, and unggah-ungguh—shapes transgenerational parenting practices and how these values persist under modernization. Using a pragmatic, convergent mixed-methods design, the research surveyed 100 Javanese adults (84 women, 16 men) and conducted thematic analysis of interview data to capture value transmission across generations. Descriptive statistics summarize the application of local values in daily parenting, while qualitative themes illuminate mechanisms of inheritance and contemporary challenges. Findings indicate that local wisdom remains integral to parenting, with unggah-ungguh (respectful conduct and politeness) most consistently emphasized in family interactions. At the same time, exposure to modern norms prompts selective adaptation rather than abandonment, suggesting continuity with calibrated change. These results highlight culturally grounded pathways for strengthening parenting programs and character education that honor tradition while accommodating current social dynamics.