Title: How civic participation drives the self-identity of emerging adults in Africa

Positive intercultural attitudes and civic action are increasingly important for youth around the world given the economic, social justice, and environmental challenges they face.  Civic and culturally identity are critically important in sub-Saharan Africa, where rates of civil conflict are among the highest in the world. However, little research has been conducted with West African youth.  When we examine the role of civic participation on the identity of young African youth we begin to see changes on how they emphasize and express themselves-- an identity encompassing their knowledge, attitudes, values, and actions regarding public participation. 

Nicole Webster is an Associate Professor of International Youth Development in the Department of Agricultural Economics, Sociology, and Education.  Her area of focus is on youth development and civic engagement among young people particularly those in marginalized communities.  Her research and scholarship spans across urban populations in the US, West Africa, and Central America.