Document Type
Article
Publication Date
2023
Publication Title
Social Science Computer Review
Department
Political Science
Abstract
TikTok is known for its lighthearted dance and lip-synch videos, yet videos with the hashtag #politics have garnered nearly 14 billion views. Does young adults’ politically oriented expression on TikTok lead to increased civic engagement offline? TikTok helps incorporate young adults into political social networks that may encourage additional civic activity. In addition, the playful, humorous nature of TikTok-based political expression encourages young adults to develop participatory, political selves. Using data from a 2020 survey of Americans between 18 and 25 years old, we find that posting political videos on TikTok connects with higher offline civic engagement. The results suggest that playful political expression is an important feature for promoting young adult civic engagement.
Recommended Citation
Moffett, Kenneth W. and Rice, Laurie, "TikTok and Civic Activity among Young Adults" (2023). SIUE Faculty Research, Scholarship, and Creative Activity. 164.
https://spark.siue.edu/siue_fac/164
Included in
American Politics Commons, Communication Technology and New Media Commons, Social Influence and Political Communication Commons, Social Media Commons