Investigating the implications of young people's participation in Scotland

Abstract

In recent years there has been a focus on the implications of young people gaining more
political autonomy in Scotland. This dissertation focuses on a qualitative study conducted
with youth charities and organisations working with young people to foster youth
engagement. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with six organisations. Models of
participation along with mobilization theory were used to understand how organisations work
with young people and why. The results indicate that organisations play a positive role in
young people’s lives, equipping them with tools to engage in society and providing
opportunities for them to connect with politics. This role is most successful when specific
strategies are used to encourage participation amongst young people, creating an essential
culture that embraces the views and involvement of young people. Overall, organisation can
act as an important agent in youth political socialisation. However, the extent to which these
can be applied to all young people in Scotland is less clear due to the selective nature of
young people involved with organisations. The dissertation will conclude with broad societal
implications along with thought for future debate and research around the issues of young
people’s political participation.