We all know that is not so in the civic and political process. Results are more long range. Lack of information and skills Americans have only a limited, vague understanding of what it means to be a citizen in a democratic society. Rather, they articulate a more personalized vision of good citizenship that includes volunteering, helping others, and raising children well. Traditional notions of citizenship, which include being politically interested and involved, are much less salient to this generation.
Young people suffer an information and skill deficit about politics and the process of voting.
Their personalized and often vague understanding of citizenship deters them from getting involved in the political process. Many youth do not feel they were given proper information about the political process from their families. Parental political engagement is a critical ingredient in youth political engagement. Many youth are learning not to vote from their parents. This is one aspect of the problem we can cure quickly.