Strategies for the Political Engagement of College Age Women Working Group

Session Submission Type: Business Meeting

Session Description

In the United States and around the world, women’s representation in elected office lags behind that of men. Having fewer women in office has a negative effect on the political engagement of women and girls, and research has established that women are less likely to consider running for office. The college years have been identified as the point at which men’s and women’s political ambition noticeably diverges. Women may not be as politically ambitious as men, but they become politically ambitious when others encourage them to engage. How can political scientists play a critical role in creating and fostering ambition in women college students? This short course engages professors and graduate students who are interested in teaching women students with an eye toward political ambition. The group will discuss strategies for the political engagement of college age women.

Sub Unit

• APSA Panels and All Meetings and Receptions

Chair

• Candice D. Ortbals Pepperdine University