Toward a Theory of Adolescent Political Efficacy Development

• In Event: Roundtable Session 45
  In Roundtable Session: Democratic Citizenship in Education Paper Discussion

Abstract

One of the strongest predictors of political participation is political efficacy, the belief that individuals’ action can influence governmental processes. Prior research suggests that various experiences, such as political discussions, can support political efficacy development. However, this earlier research does not explain why these experiences are related to political efficacy. In this mixed methods study, I begin to fill this research gap by analyzing interviews of 32 high school students and survey data from 142 undergraduates. I found evidence to support a robust model that demonstrates a wide variety of factors contribute to political efficacy, such as political interest and political trust. This study has numerous practical implications for educators and researchers interested in fostering adolescents’ active political participation.

Author

• Brett Miller Levy, University of Wisconsin - Madison