Factors Influencing Voting Decision- A Comprehensive Literature Review

Citation

• Kulachai, W., Lerdtomornsakul, U., & Homyamyen, P. (2023). Factors Influencing Voting Decision: A Comprehensive Literature Review. Social Sciences, 12, 469.

• DOI: 10.3390/socsci12090469

• Received: June 8, 2023 | Revised: August 7, 2023 | Accepted: August 15, 2023 | Published: August 22, 2023

• Copyright: © 2023 by the authors. Licensee MDPI, Basel, Switzerland.

Abstract

• Voting decisions are crucial for the political structure of a country.

• Understanding what influences voter selections is key for politicians and policymakers.

• The review examines various factors that shape voting choices in the American populace.

• Insights into these factors can inform democracy and guide future research.

• Keywords: politics; voting choice; voting decision.

Introduction

• Voting decisions influence government composition and policies.

• Various factors impact individual choices at the ballot box.

• The study explores influential factors in voting, particularly in the U.S., such as:

  • Party affiliation

  • Candidate characteristics

  • Policy positions

  • Socioeconomic factors

  • Social influences

  • Media impact

Factors Influencing Voting Decisions

Individual-Level Factors

1. Socioeconomic Status (SES)

• SES influences voting patterns based on several points:

  • Income: Higher income leads to greater political engagement and conservative leanings. Lower income correlates with support for left-leaning parties.

    • Studies:

      • Verba et al. (1995) showed a positive relationship between income and voter turnout.

      • Bartels (2008) found that income inequality influences support for left-wing parties.

  • Education: Higher education levels predict higher voting rates and liberal orientations. Education fosters critical thinking and broader issue understanding.

2. Gender

• Women tend to support left-leaning parties, prioritizing healthcare and social welfare, while men are more conservative, focusing on economic growth and security.

3. Age

• Younger voters (late teens to 30s) lean progressive; older voters (50+) lean conservative.

• Age intersects with life experiences and political socialization influences.

4. Political Ideology

• Ideological beliefs strongly guide electoral choices, linking individuals to preferred candidates.

5. Personality Traits

• Traited individuals influence preferences and political orientations based on traits like:

  • Openness to new experiences aligns with progressivism.

  • Conscientiousness often corresponds with conservatism.

6. Emotional Intelligence (EI)

• EI shapes political engagement by influencing cognitive evaluation alongside emotional responses.

Socio-Cultural Factors

1. Social Identity: Determines preferences based on race, ethnicity, gender, and class.

2. Ethnicity and Race: Minority identities often drive cohesive voting patterns, aligning with issues of social justice and equality.

3. Religion: Religious beliefs dictate support for candidates aligned with moral values, differing across denominations.

4. Media Influence: Media shapes attitudes, knowledge, and the framing of political narratives.

5. Social Networks: Online platforms influence voter decisions through information dissemination and social interactions.

Political Factors

1. Party Identification: Emotional attachment to a party simplifies decision-making and influences perceptions of candidates.

2. Candidate Characteristics: Attributes, qualifications, and qualities (e.g., leadership, trustworthiness) impact voter decisions.

3. Policy Positions: Voters evaluate candidates based on policies, which must align with their values and priorities for support.

4. Campaign Strategies: Effective communication and targeted tactics influence how candidates connect with voters and mobilize support.

5. Economic Conditions: Economic performance impacts voting behavior; good conditions favor incumbents while poor conditions breed discontent.

Discussion

• Voter decisions are influenced by demographic characteristics and contextual factors.

• Personal experiences, socialization, and exposure to information shape preferences through interconnected influences.

Implications

• Representation: Informed voting leads to representatives reflecting varied societal interests.

• Accountability: Voting holds officials accountable, impacting their responses to public needs.

• Policy Outcomes: Voting shapes governments' legislative directions.

• Democratic Legitimacy: Participation enhances legitimacy and public support for governance.

• Political Culture: Involvement promotes civic engagement and community participation.

• Social Cohesion: Diverse participation cultivates unity and shared decision-making in society.

Future Research Directions

1. Investigate social media and misinformation impact.

2. Study effects of political polarization.

3. Analyze the rise of populism and its voting impacts.

4. Explore intersectionality in voting behavior.

5. Delve into psychological factors affecting voting.

6. Consider climate and environmental issues on voter choices.

7. Assess impacts of changing demographics.

8. Examine electoral systems and reforms.

9. Understand voter suppression dynamics.

Conclusion

• The review illustrates that individual, socio-cultural, and political factors significantly shape voter behavior.

• Further research may enhance understanding of voting influences and mechanisms to engage the electorate.