Abstract
The importance of cultivating political engagement among youth has been widely discussed and its value for a well-functioning democratic society reaffirmed by numerous scholars. This study seeks to understand the relationship between the use of emerging platforms for online sociability and entertainment and political participation among young Singaporeans. Specifically, we focus on the intensity of Facebook use and frequency of video gaming, as well as more specific civic activities taking place on these platforms. The findings indicate that the intensity of Facebook use is related to both online and traditional political participation, while civic gaming is associated with online participation only. There is also evidence linking membership in civic/political Facebook groups with increased online participation. Lastly, although the results suggest that online participation may be an important driver of traditional political participation, the role of traditional media, particularly newspapers, should not be easily dismissed.
Highlights
ObjectivesThe aim of this study is take a closer look at digitally-mediated social interactions and environments that dominate the lives of young Singaporeans and analyze their contribution to traditional and emerging forms of political participation
No significant relationship was found between membership in civic/political Facebook Groups and traditional participation (H3b), but this relationship was significant in the case of online participation (H3a)
The findings indicate that the intensity of Facebook use was related to both online and traditional political participation; Facebook use accounted for a relatively small portion of variance in political participation
Summary
The aim of this study is take a closer look at digitally-mediated social interactions and environments that dominate the lives of young Singaporeans and analyze their contribution to traditional and emerging forms of political participation
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callMore From: JeDEM - eJournal of eDemocracy and Open Government
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
