Factors Influencing Participation in Liberal Student Organizations on College Campuses

Author

Nathan JohnsonFollow

Month/Year of Graduation

5-2020

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

Department

Sociology and Anthropology

First Advisor

Julie Pelton

Abstract

Despite a long history of student organizations on college campuses there is relatively little research on participation and student experiences in such groups, especially on what factors motivate students to become involved. This study sought to examine factors that influence participation in political organizations on college campuses through dependent variables of attendance and holding a leadership role. The sample focused on groups understood to be “liberal” such as the College Democrats, environmental groups, and others. Respondents were reached through personal connections, social media, and distributing the survey to student organizations. The examined factors accounted for less than a fifth of the influence on joining or holding a leadership role, however, being a Democrat, living on campus, and being involved with another organization were all significant. This data will hopefully result in further research into factors motivating participation in student organizations among college students.

Recommended Citation

Johnson, Nathan, "Factors Influencing Participation in Liberal Student Organizations on College Campuses" (2020). Theses/Capstones/Creative Projects. 104.
https://digitalcommons.unomaha.edu/university_honors_program/104