Young people are uninformed about basic facts concerning government and current events. Political Socialization America is in danger of becoming a divided nation of voters and non-voters. Absent the socializing influences of politically engaged parents, higher education, and other mediating institutions like churches and synagogues, young Americans may perpetuate the gap between voting and non-voting classes. Parental voting behavior and political engagement have a profound effect on whether their children vote. Religiosity has a strong effect on the political engagement of both youth and their parents.
Religious youth are also more likely to talk to their parents about politics.
Secondary schools have a critical role to play in political socialization. According to young people, schools fall far short in educating students about politics and their stake in the political process. America is in danger of developing a permanent non-voting class. I have already given you the profile of that group. Government, Politics, and Democracy 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.