Clearing the gap : Generational differences on Political Participation and voting behavior
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Date
2023
Authors
Lawrence John T. Lopez
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Abstract
Guided by Rational Choice Theory and Mannheim's Sociological Theory of Generations, the research focused on determining if voters from different generations differ in terms of their political participation and voting behavior. Survey data was collected from a sample of 381 voters equally divided into three age groups (youth, middle-aged and elderly) and was analyzed using a descriptive correlational research design.
Based on the findings, the study concludes that voters in general are interested in politics and they possess basic knowledge about social and political issues in the Philippines however, it was determined that young voters know more about education, peace and order, human rights and social issues than middle-aged and older voters. Voters take part in both offline and online political engagement, but they are more active in individual level of political participation in the offline realm. Young voters are also more likely than middle-aged and older voters to share and post political material on social media, join an online petition and participate in political discussions. male voters are more likely than female voters to exchange political information, wear campaign materials, express political opinions in public and join a political organization on social media. Meanwhile, online and offline political participation varies by education level. As for the voting preferences, the voters preferred candidates with political experience, ability to provide strong leadership, and an educational background, while they put low importance on the candidates' religious affiliation and political party. Family influences voting, especially for elderly and low-educated voters. TV can also influence individuals with varying levels of education. Politicians that use social media promote themselves and their programs are also popular among young voters. The results of this study contribute to a better understanding of the state of democracy in the Philippines today. This study shows that social media use is growing.