VALUES AND MATERIAL SUCCESS OF RESETTLERS

A causal two-step model for the development and effects of values with different content domains (individualistic versus collectivistic valu es) and different degrees of action orientedness in resettler families was empirically tested. It was postulated that the actual individual values were determined by the German climate in the country of origin and can be used as predictors of material success of integration. Rese ttler families whose values matched best with the dominant individuali stic value structure within the German society were predicted best cha nces in integration. The model was tested with a structural equation m odel on the basis of interview data from 239 resettler families from P oland, Roumania and the former USSR. It was found that a German climat e in the country of origin leads to collectivistic values, but that a better success of integration in the Federal Republic of Germany is af forded by individualistic values. This causal path is accompanied by a nother causal relationship. High degrees of action orientedness lead t o decreases, low degrees to increases of success of integration.