Community Service and Political Identity Development in Adolescence

Abstract

This article addresses the interconnection of political socialization and identity development. We begin with Erikson's work, which identified the development of political commitment in adolescence as a key aspect of identity formation. We then seek to shed light on the social processes through which youth become engaged in political activities and issues. We discuss the influences of family and peers as well as participation in community service and other civic activities. The development of social responsibility and agency, and an understanding of the complexity of social issues are considered as important facets of political commitment. Data from a case study of Black urban adolescents who participated in a year‐long service learning program are used to illustrate our perspective. We conclude that social‐historical context, instantiated in social relationships and actions, plays a pivotal role in the process and shape of political socialization and identity formation.