Social representations in social behaviour and political practices and social practices among university students. Case study, Faculty of Political and Social Political and Social Sciences, Autonomous University of Coahuila, (Laguna Unit).

Abstract

The research analyzed social representations in the behavior and political practices of university students, considering their academic and social relevance. Social representations, conceived as shared constructions that influence perceptions and actions, were studied in the context of the Faculty of Political and Social Sciences at the Autonomous University of Coahuila, Torreón Unit. Aspects such as political identity, student participation, and political practices were addressed.

In this context, the general objective of the research is to describe how the cultural and social environment in which university students develop generates the social representations and political practices of this social group. To achieve this, the following specific objectives were proposed: to explain how social representations of youth shape their political participation in relation to gender or accepted sexual identity; to describe the political practices through which university students engage in politics; to identify the relationship between political practices and young people’s representations of politics; and to understand the connection between the role of family, university dynamics, and exposure to social media in constructing social representations of politics from the perspective of young people.

The study identified that the university environment, along with factors such as personal experiences, significantly influences the political formation of students. Being exposed to diverse academic and social perspectives shapes their political views.

The research found that social representations evolved through academic interaction and sociopolitical events. While not all students demonstrated the same level of political commitment, the diversity of positions and their relationship with civic participation and social change were highlighted.

The study provided a detailed understanding of how individual and sociopolitical factors shaped university students' social representations. The findings contributed to understanding political dynamics in the academic sphere and strengthening student participation as a key element in forming critical citizens committed to the social and political challenges of their community.