Political Socialization Among Young Adults in Minnesota

Abstract

In an era marked by polarized political landscapes, understanding the mechanisms of political socialization among emerging adults in Minnesota provides critical insights into the formation of political identities. This study explores political socialization among young adults in Minnesota, focusing on the impact of family, peers, and personal experiences across diverse social positionalities (i.e., race/ethnicity). Utilizing thematic analysis of 41 interviews (M_age = 21.8, 73.2% Female, 70.7% affiliated politically as Democrats), we identified key themes in political socialization for young adults in Minnesota, including familial transmission (i.e., from parent to child), trickle-up socialization, limited socialization and emphasis on values, reciprocal and selective peer socialization, and personalized political socialization processes. Highlighting the nuanced role of social positionality, the research underscores young adults’ active participation in shaping their political beliefs, suggesting the importance of inclusive and adaptable political engagement strategies to accommodate diverse experiences and perspectives in democratic participation.

Keywords

political socialization peers emerging adulthood social positionality family

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