Impact of Political Attacks on Social Media on Political Cynicism

SOURCE studyfinds.org
Exposure to political attacks on social media is leading to a rise in political anger and cynicism, which can delegitimize democratic processes, distort interpretations of political information, and lead to disengagement from politics.

Key Points

  • Exposure to political attacks on social media is associated with increased political cynicism
  • Social media platforms amplify anger and hostility through toxic political content
  • Negative emotions like anger and anxiety driven by social media toxicity can impact democratic processes
  • Being mindful about focusing on nonhostile, civil dialogue on social media can help break the pattern of political cynicism

Pros

  • Research sheds light on concerning trend of rising political cynicism fueled by exposure to hostility on social media
  • Provides evidence on how exposure to political attacks can relate to political cynicism during a U.S. presidential election

Cons

  • Exposure to political attacks on social media can lead to greater levels of anger and cynicism about the state of the U.S.
  • Relentless negativity and fearmongering on social media can drive anxiety and disengagement from politics