American youth admit that they don't have good information about candidates, parties and issues. For many, casting an ill-informed vote is worse than staying home on Election Day. Young people feel they lack the information on candidates they need to cast an educated vote. Casting an ill-in formed vote is worse than not voting. Youth also lack a clear understanding of the differences between the two major political parties.
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.