| Statistical data and popular opinion suggest broad democratic participation is declining. Low rates of formal political participation are especially pronounced among the youngest eligible voters, including by inference, traditional-age college students. An extensive literature review examines explanations for political participation among citizens, including social location, psychological effects, structural barriers, and rational choice analysis. These explanations encompass important considerations: community and social capital, generational cohort theory, education, and other influences promote democratic---though not necessarily electoral---participation. Neither political science nor student affairs literatures adequately address college students' participation in electoral politics. Student affairs does embrace a focus on non-electoral, community-based experiences. This research benefits student development professionals, who will reflect on the perspectives and experiences, opportunities available to students on their own campuses, through orthodox and non-electoral political participation.; A framework incorporating three interrelated aspects of political identity development is presented. Political awareness evolves over a lifetime of receiving political influences, key influences shaping political awareness. As political awareness develops, the citizen selectively seeks political influences, thus further entrenching political awareness. These two aspects predispose the citizen to attend to certain relevant issues, and provide definition to a citizen's interpretation of political issues.; Ten students studying the political system and citizen participation took part in a series of interviews, describing the meaningfulness of their own political involvement. These interviews formed stories, personal profiles, and collected relevant issues identified by participants. Students' political awareness, a reflection of the political influences they have known, and the issues they described as important, are included.; Key findings reveal the meaning and perspectives the participants have of democracy. They believe it is maintained through common political activity, and students expect like-democratic participation of their fellow citizens. Participants question the effectiveness of political protest and the responsiveness of their government to their beliefs. Alarmingly, current security legislation following 9/11 has invoked participants' fear of our government. Key influences shape participants' political awareness, influences such as public protest, internships, and non- (or less obvious) political events, such as service-learning activities. Students' political awareness interacts with their recognition of issues, ultimately contributing to their democratic education. |
