Honors Theses
Advisor
Christopher Devine
Department
Political Science
Publication Date
4-22-2026
Document Type
Honors Thesis
Abstract
Voting access among young adults has become an increasingly important issue in recent U.S. elections, particularly as turnout among voters aged 18–24 has risen in several recent election cycles. However, this age group faces unique challenges to the voting system, many of which are overlooked or intentionally written in a way to limit their participation. Using a mixed-methods approach, this study will analyze both quantitative data, such as voter turnout statistics, and qualitative data, including survey responses from college students at the University of Dayton. The survey will employ both quantitative and qualitative data collection methods, allowing for the analysis of numerical patterns alongside students’ personal perspectives. By analyzing voter turnout data for 18–24-year-olds, alongside voter ID laws, election statistics, institutional factors, and individual survey responses, this project aims to understand how legislation may disproportionately affect young voters. Through this analysis, the study moves beyond generalized descriptive trends to evaluate the broader implications of election policy for the foundations of civic engagement among young voters. The findings of this study contribute to broader policy discussions by clarifying how election laws are perceived as either facilitating or hindering participation and by highlighting areas where policy reforms may strengthen civic engagement among 18-24-year-olds.
Permission Statement
This item is protected by copyright law (Title 17, U.S. Code) and may only be used for noncommercial, educational, and scholarly purposes.
Keywords
Undergraduate research
eCommons Citation
Burdick, Jakob A., "The Impact of Photo-ID Laws on the Youth Electorate" (2026). Honors Theses. 498.
https://ecommons.udayton.edu/uhp_theses/498
COinS
