How Students Become Politically Involved

July 23, 2012

Adolescence is an important time for the development of political identity and engagement. Political experiences during this phase of life shape future engagement. During the past year, sharp disagreements about Wisconsin’s state budgetary allocations and workers’ rights led to increased polarization and political action. Many youth have been involved in this tide of political engagement. Brett Levy is examining the political engagement of diverse youth in this dynamic political environment. Findings will help inform educators’ and researchers’ understanding of how factors in the political context influence adolescents’ motivation to become engaged in political action.