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Wha'd'ya Know?

Examining Young Voters' Political Information and Efficacy in the 2004 Election

St. Cloud State University

Elizabeth A. Dudash

Missouri State University

The problem of youth participation in elections remains largely a mystery and solutions to reengage the disengaged seem elusive. Yet an examination of young citizens' political talk may help illuminate their civic attitudes and behaviors. This study reports findings from a national focus group investigation that sought to understand young voters' information-seeking habits. Analysis identifies where young voters get their political information, what they do with this information, and whether greater knowledge leads to increased feelings of political efficacy and participation. Understanding young citizens' information-seeking habits might point to specific ways for promoting more informed, and engaged, young voters.

Key Words: civic engagement • political participation • nonvoter • young voters • efficacy

American Behavioral Scientist, Vol. 50, No. 9, 1280-1289 (2007)
DOI: 10.1177/0002764207300053


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