Influences on Voter Attitudes

Family

primary source of early political beliefs and values (i.e. agents of political socialization)

School

Education shapes civic knowledge and teaches values of the American politicial system

Peer Groups

Friends and social networks can reinforce or challenge beliefs

Mass Media

Newspapers, magazines, radio, television, and the Internet (social media) influence political knowledge and public opinions through media coverage

Public Opinion

Refers to the complex collection of opinions of many people and these societal views impact individual attitudes on political matters

Opinion Leaders

Influential public figures can sway public attitudes and opinions

Historic Events

Major events shape political views and create generational attitudes