The Political Behavior of the Mexican-American Elderly

Abstract

This paper examines political behavior among two samples of Mexican-American elderly in San Jose and Los Angeles, California. The findings show that the Mexican-American elderly have relatively low rates of political activity and a sense of efficacy. Factors leading to this political behavior–fear, lack of communication, socioeconomic status–are discussed. Implications are drawn for increased participation by Mexican-American elderly in social and political activity.