Search

In the former West Germany (Federal Republic of Germany) and the former East Germany (German Democratic Republic) two distinct cultures developed resulting in differences regarding issues of sexuality, gender, and family. The author examines which differences still remain following the reunification of the country, focusing on eleven specific issues (e.g. age of first coitus, orgasm in women, masturbation, partnering patterns, early marriage and reproduction, women in the labor force, attitudes toward nakedness). There is evidence of certain differences remaining and others lessening over time. The West German perception of East/West differences can, to a certain extent, be backed by empirical evidence. However, the West German construct of the "Easterner" goes far beyond existing differences, drawing largely on stereotypes and accompanied by a marked tendency toward marginalization and callousness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]