This study examines how disillusionment among American adolescents influenced their participation in protests post-2016. Using survey data, it finds a clear link between exposure to the resistance movement and increased likelihood of protest engagement.

Role Model Influence:

• Adolescents often emulate admired political figures or movements

• The resistance provided a visible example that sparked interest and action

• This emulation helped bridge generational divides in political participation

Protest Motivation:

• Disillusionment with politics was a major catalyst for protest activity

• Feelings of powerlessness drove some youth toward collective action

• Exposure to the resistance movement amplified these motivations

Why It Matters:

• These findings illuminate how generational divides manifest in political participation

• They offer insights into how social movements recruit young activists