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Multi-Item Scale:

Now thinking about ethnic minorities. Do you strongly agree, somewhat agree, neither agree or disagree, somewhat disagree, or strongly disagree with the following statements:<br> <i>[Und wenn Sie nun an ethnische Minderheiten denken: Inwieweit stimmen Sie den folgenden Aussagen zu?]</i>

Item Text:

a) Minorities should adapt to German customs. [Minderheiten sollten sich den deutschen Gepflogenheiten anpassen.]

Different Answer Format Tested:

Nein

Findings:

Three respondents are troubled by the term “Gepflogenheiten” (”customs”, ID 03, 07, 13):

  • “Customs? Are they supposed to wash their car on Saturdays? What even are German customs? I do not like this term at all. It makes me think of old people, who monitor foreigners and moan about.” (ID 03, strongly disagree)
  • “‘Gepflogenheiten’ meaning customs and traditions?” Then I would somewhat disagree. If ‘Gepflogenheiten’ refers to social norms and values, then I would strongly agree.” (ID 07, refused)
  • "What are German customs? Punctuality? Otherwise everyone should live as they please.” (ID 13, somewhat agree).

Recommendations:

For the sake of consistency, the term „Minderheiten“ (“minorities”) should be replaced with the term „Einwanderer“ (“immigrants”):

"Immigrants should conform to German customs."
["Einwanderer sollten sich den deutschen Gepflogenheiten anpassen.“]

Question tested:

false