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Abstract
Civic and political engagement may encourage individuals to make positive societal contributions and thus act as responsible and productive citizens. A positive relationship between civic/political engagement and the extent of one's faith-based beliefs and behaviors has been the basis for a growing field of research (e.g., Becker & Dhingra, Citation2001; Chickering, Citation2006; Dalton, Citation2006, King, Citation2008; Uslaner, Citation2002). Higher education programs that encourage students’ exploration and expression of faith/spirituality may promote a favorable attitude concerning civic engagement (Chickering, Citation2006). Two studies addressed the relationship between civic/political engagement and faith-based perceptions and behaviors among university students (Study 1: n = 762; Study 2: n = 955). Study 1 ran an exploratory factor analysis on a 20-item Faith and Civic Engagement (FACE) scale and Study 2 replicated the factor structure through confirmatory factor analysis. Results identified five reliable and valid subscales: civic engagement, faith life, political importance, (target university) influences spiritual growth, and (target university) influences personal growth.
Acknowledgments
Portions of this project were included in the Master's project completed by the first author and supervised by the second author. The authors express gratitude to Dr. Shaun E. Cowman for his statistical expertise and advice.