Socializing policy feedback: the persistent effects of adolescent policy program use on political behaviors and attitudes in adulthood

Welfare policies do more than provide financial assistance—they shape how people see the government and their role in politics. My research examines how growing up on welfare influences political beliefs and behaviors later in life. While most studies focus on short-term effects, I look at how these experiences during adolescence shape voting habits, political views, and trust in government into adulthood.

I find that adolescent welfare participation can weaken political engagement, particularly among non-Hispanic white individuals, due to stigma, lack of civic role models, and limited institutional support. As a result, they are less likely to vote in their first election and remain disengaged over time as young adults. However, these effects vary by race and across state policy contexts. For example, non-Hispanic Black adolescents in states with stricter welfare programs are more likely to vote than those without this experience, but this advantage declines as state programs become stricter.

Beyond voting, adolescent welfare participation shapes ideology and affective polarization. Non-Hispanic Black individuals who grew up on welfare tend to be more liberal as adults, and individuals who participate in welfare programs as adolescents are more likely to feel negatively toward members of the opposing political party. These individuals also recognize welfare as helpful but describe the process as burdensome and confusing, especially if they relied on multiple programs during adolescence.

By studying the long-term political effects of welfare, my research highlights how social policies shape long-term civic engagement. Understanding these dynamics can help policymakers design programs that provide support and promote trust in government and participation in democracy.