STUDENT UNIONISM IN THE NETHERLANDS; AN APPLICATION OF A SOCIAL CLASS MODEL.

A modified Martian class theory is applied in an analysis of changes in the market situation of the Dutch student, as well as in his work and status situations during recent decades. On the basis of this analysis, five hypotheses are formulated as regards the determinants of student support for the union movement in Dutch universities. These hypotheses are tested; the analysis of results of local student-council elections and a secondary analysis of survey data corroborate these hypotheses. Student unionism appears to flourish particularly among students who (1) are of middle- or lower-class origin, (2) receive government assistance, (3) attend the larger universities, (4) do not belong to the traditionally prestigious student associations, or (5) belong to but do not participate intensively in such associations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]