What you should know about this study

The 2003 General Social Survey (GSS) on social engagement surveyed about 25,000 Canadians aged 15 and older living in private households in the 10 provinces. It was developed to explore the measurement of social capital and develop a better understanding of how social networks and norms of trust and reciprocity contribute to individual and social outcomes. For this purpose, the survey collected information on a wide range of activities, such as social contacts with family, friends and neighbours; involvement in organizations, political activities and volunteer work; and the informal care they provide or receive. It also explored the values and attitudes and the level of trust in people and in public institutions. Overall, the survey provided comprehensive information on the many ways that Canadians engage in civic and social life.

This article looks at respondents 19 years and older in order to include only those individuals who have reached the age of majority for political participation.  Voting patterns of respondents are not considered because eligibility to vote (i.e. citizenship) was not collected by the survey.

Frequent users: Individuals who follow the news and current affairs at least several times a week.

News media/media diet: The sources Canadians use to access the news and current affairs (television, newspaper, radio, magazines, Internet).