The Study of the Development of Civic Engagement Within Contemporary Developmental Science: Theory,Method, and Application |
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Authors: | Richard M. Lerner Sara K. Johnson Jun Wang Kaitlyn A. Ferris Rachel M. Hershberg |
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Affiliation: | 1. Tufts Universityrichard.lerner@tufts.edu;3. Tufts University |
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Abstract: | Within contemporary developmental science, models derived from relational developmental systems metatheory emphasize that the basic process involved in the ontogeny of civic engagement involves mutually-influential and beneficial relations between the developing individual and his or her complex and changing social, cultural, and physical contexts (represented as individual ← → context relations). The authors suggest that research on the development of civic engagement should be theoretically predicated, use change-sensitive, longitudinal methods, and be comparative across time and place. Using these facets of scholarship as a lens, we discuss the contributions to this special issue. We conclude that the present set of studies provides a useful basis for future research and applications aimed at understanding and promoting individuals’ civic contributions, and their support of social organizations promoting individual thriving and freedom, liberty, and social justice. |
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