Political socialisation in New Zealand: a pilot study

Abstract

Political socialisation is the way in which each generation acquires its political knowledge, customs, attitudes and orientations, its political culture, so maintaining some continuity from generation to generation. The subject for this thesis was suggested by Dr. A.D.Robinson. He suggested that as there was little information available on the political socialisation of children in New Zealand, a pilot study should be done, by interviewing a small number of children of various ages. Eleven boys and girls, their ages ranging from 13 to 18, were interviewed to provide the data here. The fathers of two of them were also interviewed. An attempt was made to provide diversity in the interviews. Several of the children were approached through their school. Information about their intelligence and their social background was used in the selection. The others were approached through chains of acquaintance leading to their parents. They were selected to fill out the gaps in the range already selected. The sample was weighted toward children of average or above average intelligence. This occurred because early experience showed that it is not worth while to interview inarticulate children.