ABSTRACT

It is an old assumption that the integration of migrants requires the course of generations before it is complete. Such an assumption, however, is not universally accepted by migration sociologists. In fact, two rather different models exist within this field of study. One (the so-called assimilation model) is based on the traditional hypothesis that actual assimilation is only a question of time, and as such is inevitable. The other, and more strongly supported model (the segmentation model), posits that ethnic orientation and segmentation remain, and even increase over generations. Both models have their supporters. The assimilation model is backed by such West German research as that of Schrader, Nikles, and Griese (1976, 66ff), and the American work of Alba (1986). The segmentation model, on the other hand, is supported more by various studies on the "multicultural society," and on internal integration (for West Germany, the studies of Wilpert 1980, 11ff), and Elwert (1982).