Political Psychology Lecture Notes 2025-2026

These flashcards cover key concepts from the political psychology lecture notes, focusing on definitions and important theories.

What is political psychology?

It is the psychology of political behavior - exploring psychological patterns influencing political actions.

Why study political psychology?

To understand personalities, thought processes, emotions, and motivations that influence political behavior.

What was the first wave in the history of political psychology?

Studies of personality and politics, particularly psychoanalytic studies of political leaders.

What are the three elements of Freud's structure of personality?

Id, ego, and superego.

What are the Big Five personality traits?

Neuroticism, Extraversion, Openness, Agreeableness, Conscientiousness.

What is attribution theory?

A theory explaining how individuals process information to find causes for behavior.

What is cognitive dissonance?

An aversive state resulting from inconsistencies between attitudes and behaviors.

What are heuristics in information processing?

Mental shortcuts used when processing information about others.

What influences emotional reactions in political contexts?

Perceptions of in-groups and out-groups, and the nature of the political issue.

What is social identity theory?

A theory stating that individuals classify themselves and others into in-groups and out-groups, affecting behavior and attitudes.

What defines an authoritarian personality according to Adorno's research?

A personality characterized by conventionalism, authoritarian submission, authoritarian aggression, and rigid thinking.

How do cognitive categories help information processing?

They simplify and organize the environment, aiding in quicker decision-making.

What are the three components of attitude?

Cognitive, Affective, and Behavioral components.

What is the negativity effect in perception?

The tendency to attribute negative behaviors of others to their personality while overlooking external circumstances.