Surveys carried out in the United States in 1966 and 1978 and in West Germany in 1945 and 1979 showed significant decreases in authoritarianism scale scores in adolescents over time. Although the degree of attitude change was greater in West Germany, American adolescents appear somewhat more authoritarian (in relation to school, family and…

Among the topics for which West German youth feel particular concern are the destruction of the natural environment and personal relations, war, high military expenditures, poverty in developing countries, unemployment, problems of minorities, and the deterioration of educational opportunities. Remedies are suggested. (RM)

Similarities and differences are explored in programs and provisions for academically able students in the United States, Japan, and West Germany. Discussed are social attitudes toward gifted education (especially the belief that special provisions for an "elite" group are undemocratic) and the use of various teaching methods as…

Presents results of surveys of apprentices, young workers, and students in former East Germany from 1970 through 1989. Includes data on attitudes toward religion, Marxism/Leninism, the Soviet Union, East and West Germany, and the media. Reports tremendous attitude changes in almost all categories assessed from 1970 to 1989, with those changes…

Argues that a new political culture has developed since the 1960s in West Germany. Discusses the interest in issues related to the environment, women's rights, peace, and similar issues. Describes the development of the Green Party and its impact on mainstream political parties and the movement toward European unity. (CFR)

Directed toward the question of how parents and 15-year-old adolescents cope with the demands of social change occurring during unification in Germany, the comparative investigation of 40 families each in East and West Germany examines macro-social conditions of family relationships and rightist attitudes among German adolescents and adults. The…

Addresses the issue of educating German youth about Auschwitz. Questions whether students feel guilty as opposed to feeling responsible for Auschwitz, and if so, is it reasonable for succeeding generations to assume guilt for the acts of previous generations. (GG)

Attitudes and socioeconomic conditions of adolescents and young people in the Federal Republic of Germany are explored in this review of research on views about the future, social protest, unemployment, trainee jobs, the situation of girls, and alternative life styles. Research suggests that young people, while perceiving threats to the…

The document presents the text of a speech comparing American and German attitudes toward history, followed by a discussion of issues raised in the speech by conference participants. The first part of the speech identifies aspects of American and German history which are of importance to citizens of each country. American history is characterized…

Educational policy in West Germany determines the goals and functions of the nation's educational system and focuses the system to meet society's demands. The educational system includes the public schools, vocational training, continuing education, and the universities and aims to prepare people for responsible citizenship. West Germany's reform…