The study of conditions and mechanisms of adaptation, socialization and creative self-realization of young people in the conditions of transformation processes seems relevant in recent decades both in Russia and in the modern world as a whole. Researchers note that values, ideals, meanings, civic initiatives, creative and professional aspirations of young people in a particular period form the basis of the socio-cultural image of the state and influence its future. For our society and statehood, the 1990s were a difficult and transformational time, marked by decay in all spheres of life. The change of political regime and transition to market relations was spontaneous: the Soviet values were losing their relevance, and new ideals had not yet taken shape. Young people, who were at the stage of personal development, had to experience this period in a special way. The transformation of the sociopolitical and economic system was twofold: on the one hand, the opportunities for professional, creative selfrealization became wider, and on the other hand, young people were unprepared for such dramatic changes. In the present article, the author has attempted to study the example of periodicals, namely youth issues of “Darial”, the factors of value orientations, mechanisms to creative and professional self-realization in the socio-political and economic crisis in the country. Analysis of the involved materials shows that most of the young generation in the study period, despite the difficult socio-political and economic situation, in the valuepriority aspirations of life were focused on self-development, self-realization and creativity.