In theory, most American youth believe that government has a legitimate role to play in people's lives and acknowledge that government has at least some impact in their own lives. In reality, they also see few connections between government's problem-solving role and the concerns they currently face in their daily lives. American youth are pragmatic about political participation. In addition, this generation has been raised in a time of successive political scandals by increasingly cynical parents. They have learned to be skeptical and distrustful of politics and politicians.
Civic duty is a motivator for only a small minority of young voters.
Strategies and Messages for Engagement Traditional motivations for political participation and voting are not working well for youth. Except for a small minority of young people, the sense of civic duty is muted. Strategies and messages for engagement must include creative and participatory solutions if any real change is going to occur. Generally, there also needs to be more effective education to provide youth with the information and skills they need to become motivated, enlightened, and active citizens. Schools have a profound influence on young people's lives.