Socio-demographic factors and participation of the European youth: A multilevel analysis

Goswami, H (2015) Socio-demographic factors and participation of the European youth: A multilevel analysis. Przegląd Socjologiczny / Sociological Review, 64 (1). pp. 137-156. ISSN 0033-2356

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Abstract

This study draws on a transnational research project called MYPLACE (Memory, Youth, Political Legacy and Civic Engagement) which received funding from the European Commission. Survey data from almost 17000 young people from fourteen European countries were used to identify socio-demographic factors which are linked to young people's participation. Male, upper social class, higher self-perceived discrimination, greater diversity in social network, higher political socialization in family, and higher political knowledge are significantly related to greater level of political, and civic participation. In addition, higher civic participation is significantly associated with greater satisfaction with life, higher level of trust for politicians and parliament. Moreover, those in education, rated high in household income, reported greater trust for political parties and those from conservative state appeared to have significantly greater political participation. These findings are discussed in the context of previous empirical studies and theories on participation and well-being. Suggestions for future research are also put forward.