Date of Graduation
2000
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Type
MA
Committee Chair
Ronald Althouse
Abstract
Political participation in the United States can take several distinct forms, reflecting numerous socioeconomic and demographic factors that determine patterns of civic engagement. Within West Virginia, the presence of a high proportion of aged citizens has led to interesting levels of involvement. Differing patterns of engagement between age groups can be explained with regard to the influence of life-cycle, generational and period (historical) effects. Analysis of survey data reveal that older individuals are more likely to participate in conventional political activities such as voting and letter writing to elected officials, but are less likely to participate in unconventional forms of engagement such as petition signing. As the proportion of aged citizens dramatically increases into the next century, the need for further research regarding the political activities of older persons becomes paramount.
Recommended Citation
Taylor, Beth Laine, "The impact of age on political participation in West Virginia." (2000). Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Problem Reports. 10473.
https://researchrepository.wvu.edu/etd/10473