This study examines how disillusionment among American adolescents influenced their participation in protests post-2016. Using survey data, it finds a clear link between exposure to the resistance movement and increased likelihood of protest engagement.
Role Model Influence:
- Adolescents often emulate admired political figures or movements
- The resistance provided a visible example that sparked interest and action
- This emulation helped bridge generational divides in political participation
Protest Motivation:
- Disillusionment with politics was a major catalyst for protest activity
- Feelings of powerlessness drove some youth toward collective action
- Exposure to the resistance movement amplified these motivations
Why It Matters:
- These findings illuminate how generational divides manifest in political participation
- They offer insights into how social movements recruit young activists
