Content and Objectives

The project examines the correlations between fertility and mobility in Germany with a focus on disparities in educational level.

The aim of the project is to study spatial mobility behaviour in the life course. In addition to fundamental questions of the prevalence and socio-demographics of internal migration and commuter mobility, the project particularly analyses the interrelationships with other aspects of life such as family, job and quality of life.

First, the focus is on the causes of increasing commuting mobility in Germany. We examine the extent to which processes of social modernisation and the flexibilisation of labour markets are linked to the increasing prevalence of long commuting routes. Secondly, the influence of long commutes on life satisfaction is analysed. Thirdly, the connection between willingness to commute and commuting behaviour is illuminated with regard to possible selection and adaptation processes. Fourth, the focus is on the relationship between spatial and social mobility.