October 30, 2018 (SAN FRANCISCO / NASHVILLE) — Generation Z, which is comprised of today’s youth and young adults, has received little attention compared to the Millennial generation. Yet, those in Generation Z (born 1995-2010) are among our newest voters.
Generation Z: A Century in the Making (www.whoisgenerationz.com) co-authored by Dr. Corey Seemiller and Meghan Grace, offers insight into nearly every aspect of the lives of those in Generation Z, including their political ideologies and potential voting behavior.
Here’s what the key research says about their views on politics:
- They are skeptical of a political system that doesn’t appear to be working. “Our political system is in need of a redo.” ~ Gen Zer
- Most don’t see politicians as leaders. 3% identify political leaders as their number one role models, while 27% would choose political leaders last out of every other type of role model.
- Many believe politicians are corrupt. “I am very concerned about politics. I don’t enjoy following them myself, but that’s partially because of how corrupt they are. I feel as if I have no say in what’s going on, democracy or not; politicians do what they do and eat up our money and do relatively little good for the people.” ~ Gen Zer
- They want to see bi-partisanship. “It worries me that our political institutions are unable to find any passable options or even compromises. All the infighting is preventing us from moving forward and truly prospering as a nation.” ~ Gen Zer
- They want the hateful rhetoric to stop. “I want us to make sure that we learn that America will be at its greatest when it finally learns that we are better a nation united by our difference than divided by our hatred.” ~ Gen Zer
- They need to see their concerns explicitly addressed in candidate and party platforms. Issues include education, equality/human rights/inclusion, the environment, and school safety.
- 69% say their parents are their number one role models. They trust their inner circle more than celebrities, politicians, and other well-known people; families should talk about the importance of voting.
- 78% say their values and decisions are highly influenced by their peers; if their friends vote and share about it, they might vote too.
- 75% are motivated by making a difference for others; if they believe voting can make a positive impact and help others, they may be more compelled to vote.
Read more about this book and research at www.whoisgenerationz.com.
Both authors welcome interviews.
About the authors
Dr. Corey Seemiller (www.coreyseemiller.com) is a seasoned educator, researcher, and speaker, presenting nationally and internationally on issues related to leadership, civic engagement, career development, and Generation Z. She received her Bachelor’s degree in Communication, Master’s degree in Educational Leadership, and Ph.D. in Higher Education and currently serves as a faculty member in the Department of Leadership Studies in Education and Organizations at Wright State University teaching courses in Organizational Leadership. She has worked with colleges, K-12 institutions, non-profits, military, and community organizations engaging in leadership and organizational development for more than 20 years and is the author of Generation Z: A Century in the Making, Generation Z Goes to College, Generation Z Leads, and The Student Leadership Competencies Guidebook. Her popular TED Talk on Generation Z at TEDxDayton showcased how Generation Z plans to make a difference in the world.
Meghan Grace (www.meghanmgrace.com) is the co-author of Generation Z: A Century in the Making, which offers a historical look at that influence of the last 100 years on Generation Z. She is also the co-author of Generation Z Goes to College and Generation Z Leads. She is also the host of the podcast #GenZ, which focuses on sharing the stories and experiences of members of Generation Z. Meghan Grace received her bachelor’s degree in Communication, Master’s degree in Higher Education, and is currently pursuing her Ed.D. in Higher Education Leadership and Policy. She has a background working in higher education serving in roles that have focused on program development and management, curriculum, assessment and evaluation, and event coordination. Meghan currently serves as an associate with Plaid, LLC., delivering Generation Z related presentations, training sessions, and facilitating strategy development for colleges and universities, professional associations, and businesses.
Contact: Corey Seemiller, corey.seemiller (AT) juno.com
Twitter: @coreyseemiller
LinkedIn: Corey Seemiller
Facebook: Corey Seemiller
TEDxDayton YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cN0hyudK7nE
Contact: Meghan Grace, meghanmgrace (AT) gmail.com
Web: www.meghanmgrace.com
Instagram: @meghanmgrace
Twitter: @meghanmgrace
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/meghanmgrace/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/meghanmgrace/
Podcast: #GenZ
Book review copies, Alex Atkinson, Routledge, Alexandra.atkinson@informa.com
###