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Politics

Black man casting a vote at a polling place

The study of political issues, processes, and dynamics, at both the individual and group levels, from the perspective of psychological principles. the application of psychological principles and knowledge to the formation of public policy, particularly as related to mental health and associated issues.

Adapted from the APA Dictionary of Psychology

Resources from APA

Fireworks explode in celebration of Independence Day

The psychology of patriotism

Distinct forms of patriotism are associated with different patterns of civic engagement, social connection, well-being, and attitudes toward others

Peter Coleman explains how to reduce political polarization

Psychologist studies the complex and systemic solutions required to reduce political polarization

Hand holding red pencil and is tied up with rope. Representing freedom speech, freedom of expression issues.

Research under pressure: Studying conflict in authoritarian contexts

Peace and Conflict article identifies how authoritarianism alters the research landscape

How to calm political violence, according to psychologists

Understanding drivers behind acts help prevent or mitigate destructive consequences

More resources about politics

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Webinars, training, and events

APA books

Cover of Political Psychology in Latin America

Political Psychology in Latin America

Cover of Contextual Social Psychology

Contextual Social Psychology

Cover of Beyond Your Bubble (medium)

Beyond Your Bubble

Cover of Liberation Psychology (medium)

Liberation Psychology

Cover of Perspectives on Hate (medium)

Perspectives on Hate

Journal special issues

Cover of Political Thinking

Political Thinking

Cover of Peace Psychology and Global Challenges

Peace Psychology and Global Challenges

Cover of Legacy of Cushman in Theoretical and Philosophical Psychology

Legacy of Cushman in Theoretical and Philosophical Psychology

Group Dynamics of the U.S. Capitol Insurrection

Group Dynamics of the U.S. Capitol Insurrection

Cover of Psychological Science and Public Policy (special issue of Translational Issues in Psychological Science, March 2021)

Psychological Science and Public Policy