Profiles of youth citizenship: A cluster analysis of ethical factors, demographics, and problem-solving disposition

Youth have the capacity to drive positive change in their communities through active and engaged citizenship (AEC). Teen-leadership programs provide youth with opportunities to develop the skills necessary to participate as partners in community problem-solving efforts. Situated in relational developmental systems metatheory, this study aimed to examine how cluster membership based upon demographic characteristics, ethical factors, and problem-solving disposition impacted AEC. The findings indicated significant differences between clusters for AEC, civic duty, and civic skills. These differences were predominately observed through membership in long-term or short-term leadership programs, gender, enrollment in honors/AP courses, ethical views, and problem-solving disposition. Youth leadership practitioners should consider avenues for infusing problem-solving and character development in gender inclusive program curriculum to increase likelihood for contributing.