Relations between Second-Language Proficiency and National Identification: The Case of Immigrants in Germany

Abstract

This article discusses and empirically tests the relations between German language proficiency and national identification with Germany among first-generation immigrants in Germany. It presents three theoretical arguments: (i) language proficiency positively affects national identification; (ii) contrastingly, national identification positively influences language proficiency; and (iii) there is a reciprocal relationship between both constructs. To test these potentially contradictory claims empirically, we use data on first-generation immigrants in Germany measured in four waves (1997, 1999, 2001, and 2003) from the German Socio-Economic Panel study. Language proficiency is operationalized with the variable proficiency in German language. Hypotheses are tested using autoregressive cross-lagged structural equation models. Findings demonstrate an effect of language proficiency on national identification among immigrants in Germany. However, data provide no support for an effect in the other direction.