Online vs. offline local political communication : an analysis of the effect of age on the use of online and offline channels of communication

This research focuses on the relationship between age and people’s use of channels for local political communication and information gathering. The topic will be discussed by addressing the following research question: Are there age-related differences in the use of online and offline channels for political communication on the local level and which factors explain any such differences in the use of these channels. This question will be addressed in a cross-sectional multivariate analysis. Data from the Dutch local elections study Lokaal Kiezersonderzoek (LKO) from 2016 will be used for this research. Many authors have discussed the effect of age on participation and civil engagement (Jankowski & Strate 1951, Parsons 1951, Einstadt 1956, Kersting 2004, 2016), yet this research will contribute to the existing body of knowledge by studying the field of political online communication on the Dutch local level. This thesis seeks to present the opportunities this channel provides, especially for the youth who is underrepresented in traditional, namely offline, forms of communication.