Political Psychology

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.

Challenging fears of widespread radicalization, a recent study suggests extremist recruitment in gaming spaces is uncommon. However, exposure to such political messaging might still foster aggression and sexism among players.

Most college students believe marginalized communities need extra protection from offensive speech. However, a new study reveals that strong political biases often override these stated principles when students decide what speech should be punished.

A new study reveals that voters use "left" and "right" labels as mental shortcuts to guess a politician's stance. Surprisingly, many voters' own political identities do not actually match the specific policies they support.

A new study suggests conservative Americans experienced worse health outcomes and higher mortality rates than liberals over the last decade. Researchers attribute this widening gap to demographic shifts and a growing distrust in doctors among right-leaning individuals.