Being politically motivated

This chapter shows that participation in behaviours that are non-political but politically motivated is highest among the middle generations (Baby Boomers, Generation X, and Millennials) and lowest among the oldest generation and the youngest generation. It also shows that political news exposure has a positive effect on this type of political participation, especially so for the Baby Boomers and Generation Z. A range of participatory behaviours exists that are targeted neither directly at the political system nor the local community. In the case of Generation Z, which is most strongly affected, political news consumption contributes to their political interest and therefore strengthens the youngest generation’s engagement in non-political, politically motived practices. The non-political, politically motivated participation of Generation X and Millennials can most consistently be explained by an indirect effect of interest, knowledge, and efficacy. Thus, being interested in politics and feeling capable of changing political matters are important steps towards participating and engaging in politically motivated but non-political practices.