Motivational Frameworks and Economic Perceptions of College Student Campaigners

• In Event: 56.081 - Roundtable Session 24
  In Roundtable Session: 56.081-11 - Sociopolitical Economic Understandings of Higher Education

Abstract

Contemporary populist progressive movements may be re-engaging young adults after decades of declining political participation. Using in depth interviews with college students involved in the Democratic campaign during spring 2016, this pilot study examines their perceptions and motivations and the role of higher education institutions in supporting their political engagement. Analysis of the data revealed three distinct motivational frameworks: 1) justice driven, 2) intellectually driven, and 3) socially driven; as well as four themes: 1) economic uncertainty as an extracurricular motivator, 2) values in transition, 3) university as an environment rather than actor, and 4) contradictions of peer non-participation. The paper recommends a consideration of diverse motivational frameworks and for educational institutions to actively incorporate policy debates into curriculum.

Author

• Lucas Greeley, Rutgers University