Multidimensional Approach to Distinguishing between the Most and LeastPolitically Engaged Senior Citizens, Using Socialization and Participation Variables

摘要

This study is based upon a paradox: while large numbers of seniors enjoysufficient personal resources to become highly politically engaged if they choose to, few of these potential activists do more than vote. This study tests the impact of a wide assortment of variables to better understand why this is so. Variables include the usual suspects from political participation literature (i.e. partisanship) and more unusual suspects drawn from socialization, prosocial behavior, and political communication research. Data, collected by the author, is based on 319 completed surveys from three subsamples of seniors: 120 suburban, 99 small town, 100 Gray Panthers. The term political engagement encompasses three