Abstract
This theoretical chapter begins with a short review of the existing literature in economics and sociology on how societies cope with demographic change. Then demographic means of coping with demographic problems are discussed in terms of family policy and migration. As most effects of demographic change cannot be countered by demographic coping—at least in the short term—a systematic theory of non-demographic coping with demographic change is developed. This theory focuses (a) on the process of problem framing, (b) the development of coping strategies, (c) the institutionalisation of adaptability and (d) mentalities as the longue durée of coping. The general concept is specified by an analysis of labour market flexibility and the division of labour in public sectors that have been confronted with demographic change. We theorise on the basis of a realistic model of problems, which are constituted by a discrepancy in the resources available to a social unit and the aspirations it develops. A second element, coping attempts, is characteristic of coping strategies that follow a similar but not completely congruent logic: The coping strategy of expansion tries to regain resources by shifting the focus to new areas of activity either by following a plan or by improvising collectively. The coping strategy of reduction seeks to readapt aspirations either by reducing activities or by switching identity, which can be carried out by cultivating diversity. The coping strategy of reorganisation either replaces people or changes structures. The coping strategy of threat rigidity is characterised by non-reaction.
Author: Reinhold Sackmann
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Notes
- 1.
We prefer the more concrete formulation of a discrepancy of resources and aspirations, as Greve and Strobl’s (2004) more general formula of a problem as being an is-ought discrepancy seems to be overgeneralized, especially since “is” constitutes a rather opaque term.
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Sackmann, R. (2015). How Do Societies Cope with Complex Demographic Challenges? A Model. In: Coping with Demographic Change: A Comparative View on Education and Local Government in Germany and Poland. European Studies of Population, vol 19. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-10301-3_3
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