Political Psychology

When young Americans use dating apps, political labels act as major dealbreakers. A new study in the European Sociological Review reveals that daters penalize opposing political views heavily, driven by assumed lifestyle clashes and fear of family disapproval.

Researchers have developed a dual-threat model to explain modern antisemitism. The findings suggest that believing Jewish people hold excessive power triggers unique psychological fears across the political divide.

A popular theory suggests voters reject opposing facts to avoid the emotional pain of being wrong. New research tested this idea and found that managing our feelings does not actually close the partisan divide over basic reality.

A recent nationwide survey suggests that adults who strongly approve of the National Rifle Association are more likely to justify and express a willingness to participate in politically motivated violence.

A new study suggests that experiencing a mental illness is becoming a distinct political identity, particularly among Gen Z. Those who strongly identify with their mental health conditions are increasingly demanding expanded healthcare, education, and welfare funding.

The debate over World Cup icons Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo isn't just about soccer. New research spanning 26 countries reveals that liberals generally prefer Messi, while conservatives favor Ronaldo, especially among younger, politically divided generations.

Political anger doesn’t always lead to violence. A new study shows that intense frustration only increases support for undemocratic behaviors when people feel the government is ignoring them, suggesting responsive institutions are vital for a healthy democracy.

New psychological research reveals that everyday sadistic tendencies and a cynical, manipulative nature powerfully fuel militant extremist beliefs. By analyzing dark personality traits and moral judgments, scientists are uncovering how ordinary people justify political violence.

Despite popular beliefs linking psychedelic drugs to open-mindedness, new research published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology suggests that substances like psilocybin and LSD do not reliably alter a person's authoritarian political views.

When readers encounter expected political viewpoints, they often fall for misinformation. A new study reveals that reading surprisingly opposed viewpoints on trusted platforms forces people to think harder, dramatically improving their ability to spot false claims.

Voters rarely reward state politicians for their lawmaking skills. However, a recent study suggests that the most effective state legislators still reach Congress because their ambition drives them to pursue higher federal office.

A person's beliefs about race can influence whether they vote, but the outcome heavily depends on their religious identity. A nuanced study compares how racial resentment motivates white, Black, Latino, and Asian American evangelicals in opposite ways.

A recent study suggests identifying as a feminist might paradoxically increase certain body image concerns. Researchers found that when feminist beliefs intertwine with consumer culture, women may experience heightened pressures to conform to unrealistic beauty standards.

An experimental survey reveals that Democratic voters judge political opponents by their perceived opposition to policies aimed at reducing racial inequality. This racial ideology framework provides a new explanation for deep-seated partisan hostility in the United States.