Poster #23 - Why Do Young Adults Vote at Low Rates? Implications for Education

• In Event: 63.088 - MTCC Poster Session 14
  In Poster Session: 63.088-4 - Democratic Citizenship in Education Poster Session

Abstract

This theoretical and empirical study examines the political attitudes, experiences, and habits of young adults in the United States, with particular focus on their voting habits. The particular focus of inquiry is why this group votes at low rates (just 22% of citizens ages 18-29 voted in the 2014 elections). Relevant theoretical and empirical research studies were reviewed and interviews were conducted with forty young adults. Building on theories regarding the role of voter turnout for democracy and juxtaposing them with competing theories of neoliberalism and individualism, and in light of the struggle for suffrage and against voter suppression in the U.S., this study argues that educators can take action to better prepare young adults for participation in electoral politics.

Author

• Matthew Knoester, Ripon College