A new article by STUDACT project’s former postdoc Tara Bartlett and lab head Miri Yemini has been published in YOUNG: “From Protest to Politics: GenZ’s Inside–Outside Activism and Political Efficacy.”

The study follows 10 Gen Z activists aged 17–26 in the US Southwest, using social media photo elicitation and serial reflection interviews to trace how young people move from outside activism — protests, online campaigns, volunteering — into formal political spaces like running for office or engaging with policymakers. The findings show a virtuous circle: early activism builds internal confidence, which drives deeper involvement, which in turn tests and strengthens belief in institutional responsiveness. The authors highlight how navigating formal institutions both exposes structural barriers and creates real opportunities for youth-led policy influence.