Teen Politics
Research Study

Researchers at the University of Rochester are conducting a study about how parents and teens think about politics and people with different political views. We hope to learn more about how political beliefs develop during the teen years and what social experiences may shape those beliefs over time.

Fast Facts

Teens ages 14-17
and their parents

Live in the same household

Compensation
up to $20

Conducted remotely

Additional Information

This study is being done to better understand how political beliefs and attitudes develop during adolescence. By hearing from both parents and teens, researchers can learn more about how people think about politics, trust, and differences in opinion.

You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria.

Inclusion Criteria:

  • Teens ages 14-17 and their parents
  • Live in the same household as their parent
  • Speak English

Exclusion Criteria:

  • Parent or legal guardian does not live in the same residence as teen
  • Living abroad in the U.S.
  • Not comfortable completing a survey in English

Overall Duration

Participation takes place entirely online and is completed once both the parent and teen finish their surveys. Each survey takes about 20 minutes to complete.

Online Activities

Step 1: Parent Survey

  • The parent or legal guardian will complete an online survey that takes about 20 minutes.

  • The survey asks questions about political beliefs, opinions, trust, and attitudes toward people with different political views.

  • At the end of the survey, the parent will provide their contact information and permission for their teen to participate.

Step 2: Teen Survey

  • A member of the research team will email the parent a survey link for their teen.

  • The parent can share the link with their teen.

  • The teen will review an assent form and then complete their own online survey, which takes about 20 minutes.

  • The survey asks similar questions about social and political views, trust, and opinions about different groups of people.

Data Collection

  • All study activities are completed through secure online surveys.

  • No in-person visits are required.

  • Researchers will collect survey responses and basic information needed to coordinate participation.

At-Home Activities

  • All participation takes place at home using a computer, tablet, or smartphone with internet access.

  • Participants complete one survey each.

  • There are no daily tasks, apps to download, or follow-up activities after the surveys are completed.

Additional Details

  • Participation is completely voluntary.

  • Parents and teens must live in the same household.

  • Participants must currently live in the United States and be comfortable completing surveys in English.

  •  

Yes. After both the parent and teen complete their surveys, the parent will receive a $20 Amazon gift card as a thank-you for participating.

There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.