Suchergebnisse

"The German Bundestag has been slow in its institutional adaptation to the emerging governance structures at the European level and Members of the Bundestag (MdBs) have made only hesitant use of their institutional means to hold the federal government to account for its actions at the European level. The explanation for these findings does not focus on the general institutional constraints emanating from the complex mix of inter-governmental and supranational decision-making in the EU or the general propensity of the Bundestag to emphasize committee expertise instead of communication and debate. Rather, the explanation is based on an expected-utility model that focuses on the electoral benefits that MdBs derive from legislative oversight of the national government in the EU policy process. These benefits are largely a function of the electoral salience of European integration and EU policies. In addition, the incentives of MdBs are negatively affected by high levels of uncertainty (a) about the link between a policy and its expected outcomes and (b) about the efficacy of legislative oversight. Finally, their decision to engage in oversight activities depends on the cost of the activity. Low electoral salience and high uncertainty about outcomes and responsibilities can explain why elected representatives have generally chosen not to utilize the institutional capabilities available to them to hold the federal government accountable for its policies at the EU level." (author's abstract)

The lives of Third Culture Kids (TCKs) are characterized by their experiences of living among different worlds that could isolate them from social interaction and establishing long-term friendships. Exploring the experiences of ten TCKs, this paper reports on primary data gathered through the Collage Life Story Elicitation Technique (CLET) in order to gain an understanding of the meaning making of TCKs and their commitment and reticence in establishing relationships during their developmental years. In-depth thematic analysis indicated a struggle building intimacy and companionships and deep friendships, as well as difficulties with maintaining relationships with others and a possible fear of commitment. Implications for counselling of TCKs and their families are discussed.