Social cohesion, internal efficacy, and external efficacy: Studying voting behavior using collective efficacy theory. Issue 5 (19th October 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Gearhart, Michael C.
• Is Part Of: Community development. Volume 51:Issue 5(2020)
• Page Start: 593
• Page End: 608
• Publication Date: 2020-10-19
• Subjects: Collective efficacy -- civic participation -- social cohesion -- internal efficacy -- external efficacy; Community development -- Periodicals; 307.1405
• DOI: 10.1080/15575330.2020.1825502
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1557-5330

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Collective efficacy theory is a widely used theoretical framework for explaining how social cohesion is activated as collective actions. Because collective efficacy was developed as a criminological theory, the majority of collective efficacy research focuses on the relationship between social cohesion and informal social control. Conceptually, social cohesion can be activated as civic participation – particularly voting. Although research examining voting behavior through a collective efficacy framework is scarce, findings suggest that collective efficacy is a useful framework for explaining civic participation. However, previous research is limited because it lacks key predictors of voting – namely internal efficacy and external efficacy. This study examines the relationships among social cohesion, internal efficacy, and external efficacy using a nationally representative sample of voters. Findings support collective efficacy as a useful framework for increasing civic participation. Further, social cohesion, internal efficacy, and external efficacy are key factors predicting civic participation.