SOCIAL INTEGRATION AND SOCIAL SUPPORT IN A LIFE CRISIS - EFFECTS OF MACROSOCIAL CHANGE IN EAST-GERMANY

The breakdown of the former communist system in East Germany was a maj or critical life event for those who left that country as well as for those who stayed behind. When the borders were opened, a longitudinal study was launched to examine the psychological readaptation process. Some indicators of social changes of migrants compared to nonmigrants were available. At three points in time over 2 years, both groups repo rted on their social bonding and social support. Migrants readjusted w ell by making new friends. In particular, young men were socially acti ve, and more same-sex than opposite-sex friendships were established. The group of young migrants reported having received the most support, in particular when they had a partner. Anticipated support, in contra st, was highest for young single women who did not migrate. Results co ntribute to the understanding of social dynamics that occur after a st ressful relocation.