ABSTRACT
The franchise is a central feature of a democratic government, and the preparation of children to exercise this right as adults is one of the key elements of the socializing process. A major role is open to the individual: watching over the govern-ment's conduct and attempting to influence its actions. Presentation of controversial issues for discussion in the classroom and the child's increasing experience with actions of a political system which do not meet his standards modify the feeling that governmental activity and power are beyond question. The concept of government as an object which will respond to citizen protest on issues is the most crucial aspect of this relationship of citizens to government. The age changes in the item regarding perception that the government is "all for the best," show that a somewhat more realistic view of government is acquired with increasing experience.
