The Formation of Political Identities Among American College Students

Abstract

This thesis explores the factors that contribute to the formation of young adults’ political identities: Education, race, gender, socioeconomic status, family relationships, environment, etc. This research contains quantitative and qualitative data collected from a survey, interviews, and opinion pieces written by undergraduate students. Results disprove the notion that only poor white Americans supported Trump in the 2016 election, adding nuance to the stereotype of coast elites as well. Interview analysis reveals that young adults express frustration with identity politics and political stereotyping, as well as concerns about the future of America as a geopolitically polarized country. Results also revealed the growing popularity of the “Independent” political identity, as well as the “fiscally conservative, socially liberal” identity.