Segmented assimilation and cross-national comparative research on the integration of immigrants and their children

In the study of immigrant integration – understood as the integration of immigrants and their offspring – segmented assimilation theory stands out as the most comprehensive, coherent and systematic approach in its field. It is much discussed, but also much contested. This article attempts a critical evaluation of the theory. It looks also at the question of whether the theory applies to Europe and whether it can thus be used in cross-national research.