Social issues and trends — AQA A-Level German
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Social issues and trends explained
This topic covers two main areas: Aspects of German-speaking society (family, digital world, and youth culture) and Multiculturalism in German-speaking society (immigration, integration, and racism).
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Students must study these themes in relation to at least one German-speaking country using a range of sources.
What to demonstrate
- Ability to initiate and conduct individual research
- Critical and analytical response to concepts and issues
- Use of authentic spoken and written sources
Show all 6 objectives
- Ability to infer meaning from complex material
- Accurate application of grammar and vocabulary
- Ability to justify opinions with relevant evidence
Social issues and trends exam tips
Topic Overview
This topic explores the key social issues and trends in German-speaking countries, focusing on the changing nature of family structures, the integration of migrants, and the challenges of an ageing population. You will examine how these developments are reflected in German society, politics, and media, and consider the debates they provoke. Understanding these issues is essential for discussing contemporary Germany in your A-Level exam and for developing a nuanced view of German culture.
The topic is divided into three main areas: the evolution of family life (including marriage, cohabitation, and same-sex partnerships), the impact of migration (from Gastarbeiter to the 2015 refugee crisis), and the implications of demographic change (such as pension reform and care for the elderly). Each area requires you to analyse statistics, policy responses, and public opinion, and to compare them with the UK context where relevant.
Mastering this topic will enable you to write and speak confidently about modern German society, using specific examples and vocabulary. It also provides a foundation for understanding broader themes like multiculturalism, social cohesion, and the role of the state, which are central to the AQA A-Level specification.
Key Concepts
- →Wandel der Familienstrukturen: The decline of the traditional nuclear family, rise of single-parent households, patchwork families, and the legalisation of same-sex marriage (Ehe für alle) in 2017.
- →Integration und Migration: The history of migration to Germany (Gastarbeiter, Aussiedler, asylum seekers), the concept of Leitkultur, and the challenges of integrating refugees, especially after 2015.
- →Demografischer Wandel: Germany's low birth rate (1.5 children per woman), ageing population (Renteneintrittsalter raised to 67), and the resulting strain on the pension system and healthcare.
- →Soziale Ungleichheit: The gap between rich and poor, the role of the welfare state (Sozialstaat), and debates about Hartz IV reforms and the minimum wage (Mindestlohn).
- →Multikulturelle Gesellschaft: The concept of a multicultural society versus assimilation, the rise of right-wing populism (AfD), and the integration of Muslims in Germany.
Marking Points
- Ability to initiate and conduct individual research
- Critical and analytical response to concepts and issues
- Use of authentic spoken and written sources
- Ability to infer meaning from complex material
- Accurate application of grammar and vocabulary
- Ability to justify opinions with relevant evidence
Examiner Tips
- 💡Use the 5-minute preparation time for the speaking exam to make notes on the stimulus card
- 💡Ensure you ask two questions in the speaking exam that seek information or an opinion
- 💡Write approximately 300 words for essays to ensure access to the full range of marks
- 💡Use a wide range of vocabulary and complex grammatical structures
- 💡Focus on critical appreciation and analytical response rather than just description
- 💡Use specific statistics and examples to support your arguments. For instance, mention that Germany's birth rate is 1.5 children per woman, or that over 1 million refugees arrived in 2015. This shows you have learned the facts.
- 💡Compare and contrast with the UK where relevant. For example, compare Germany's integration policies (e.g., language courses, civic orientation courses) with those in the UK. This demonstrates a wider understanding.
- 💡Always link your points to the wider social and political context. For example, when discussing the ageing population, connect it to the 2017 pension reform or the debate about raising the retirement age. This shows you can analyse rather than just describe.
Common Mistakes
- Lifting language directly from stimulus material without rephrasing
- Including irrelevant material in summaries
- Failing to ask questions containing a conjugated verb in the speaking exam
- Providing factual information without critical analysis or evaluation
- Not supporting opinions with appropriate evidence
- Misconception: Germany has no problem with racism or discrimination. Correction: While Germany has strong anti-discrimination laws, studies show that people with a migration background face disadvantages in housing, employment, and education, and far-right extremism is a growing concern.
- Misconception: The German family is still very traditional with a male breadwinner. Correction: Although traditional models persist, especially in the former East Germany, dual-earner couples are now the norm, and the government has expanded parental leave (Elternzeit) and childcare provision to support working parents.
- Misconception: All migrants in Germany are refugees. Correction: Germany has a diverse migrant population, including EU citizens (especially from Poland and Romania), skilled workers (Fachkräfte), and family reunification cases. Refugees make up only a portion of the total.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main changes in German family structures since reunification?
Since reunification, German family structures have become more diverse. The traditional model of a married couple with children has declined, while cohabitation, single-parent families, and patchwork families have increased. Same-sex marriage was legalised in 2017. The birth rate remains low at around 1.5 children per woman, and more women are in the workforce, leading to a rise in dual-earner households. The government has introduced policies like Elterngeld (parental allowance) and expanded Kita (nursery) places to support working parents.
How has migration shaped modern German society?
Migration has profoundly shaped Germany, from the Gastarbeiter (guest workers) of the 1950s-70s to the refugee crisis of 2015. Today, about 26% of the population has a migration background. Migrants have contributed to the economy, especially in sectors like manufacturing and healthcare, but integration remains a challenge. Issues include language barriers, discrimination, and the rise of the far-right AfD party. Germany has implemented integration courses and a points-based system for skilled workers (Fachkräfteeinwanderungsgesetz) to manage migration.
What is the impact of Germany's ageing population on the economy?
Germany's ageing population puts pressure on the pension system, healthcare, and the labour market. With fewer young people entering the workforce, there is a shortage of skilled workers (Fachkräftemangel). The government has raised the retirement age to 67 and encouraged immigration to fill gaps. The pension system relies on contributions from current workers, so a shrinking workforce means either higher contributions or lower pensions. This has sparked debates about pension reform and the need for more family-friendly policies to boost birth rates.
What is the difference between integration and assimilation in the German context?
Integration in Germany refers to migrants adopting core values (like the constitution and language) while maintaining their own culture, as promoted by the concept of Leitkultur (leading culture). Assimilation, on the other hand, implies giving up one's original culture entirely. German policy emphasises integration through language courses, civic orientation, and anti-discrimination laws, but there is debate about how much cultural diversity should be allowed. The term 'multicultural society' is often used critically, with some arguing it has failed.
How does the German welfare state address social inequality?
The German welfare state (Sozialstaat) aims to reduce inequality through progressive taxation, social insurance (health, pension, unemployment), and transfers like Kindergeld (child benefit) and Hartz IV (unemployment benefits). However, inequality has risen since the 2000s, with a growing low-wage sector and wealth concentration. The minimum wage (Mindestlohn) introduced in 2015 helps, but critics argue that Hartz IV reforms created a precarious underclass. The government also invests in education and training to promote social mobility.
What role does the AfD play in debates about social issues in Germany?
The Alternative for Germany (AfD) is a right-wing populist party that has gained support by opposing immigration, Islam, and multiculturalism. It criticises the government's refugee policy and calls for stricter border controls and assimilation. The AfD's rise has polarised German society and pushed other parties to take tougher stances on integration. However, the party remains controversial, with some of its members accused of extremism. Its success reflects broader anxieties about social change and globalisation.