Political Beliefs and Behaviors

AP GOV

Demographic

measurable characteristics of a population, such as economic status, education, age, race or ethnicity, and gender

Political socialization

the experiences and factors that shape an individual’s political values, attitudes, and behaviors.

Political culture

the set of beliefs, customs, traditions, and values that Americans share.

Political efficacy

a person’s belief that he or she can make effective political change

Gender gap

American women are more likely to identify with and vote for Democratic Party candidates than men, who are more likely to vote for Republican Party candidates.

Policy Agenda

the set of issues to which government officials, voters, and the public are paying attention.

Retrospective Voting

voting based on an assessment of an incumbent’s past performance

Prospective Voting

casting a ballot for a candidate who promises to enact policies favored by the voter in the future