In this paper LAT partnerships are investigated from a geographical point of view, using empirical evidence from Germany. LATs are altogether a small population segment in late-modern societies, however, they point to the need of contemporary population studies to pay attention beyond household to the level of living arrangements in order to understand societal changes. In previous research a distinction between couples which live apart over long distance or in close proximity is not applied. In official statistics and surveys across Europe and North America the spatialities of LAT unions is not captured either. The present results reveal that distance matters in this respect: long distance LAT unions do not only relate to specific formation and motivation contexts but also to distinguishing socio-structural characteristics compared to couples in separate households close-by. Firstly, an overview of the extent and characteristics of LAT unions in Western countries will be given from which some conclusions regarding the relevance of long distance LAT unions can be drawn for Germany. Subsequently, empirical evidences on long and short distance LAT partnerships will be provided using standardised field investigations in German cities.
Presented by:
Darja Reuschke (University of Trier, Germany)
Date & time:
October 6, 2010 12:00 pm - October 6, 2010 1:00 pm
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