Political psychology is what you’d get if politics and psychology got together and held hands. Political psychology is a branch of psychology that studies the connection between psychology and politics. The political psychologist, in essence, applies psychological theories to political issues. Despite the fact that political science is heavily involved in the research, psychology is emphasized as the most important field of study.
When researchers began to psychoanalyze the relationship between politics and psychology in the 1940s, political psychology was born. Political psychologists are interested in the underpinnings of political behavior and the consequences it has on the politician and the rest of the world. To do so, the political psychologist applies their social science and psychology knowledge to the world of politics.
Political psychologists try to understand politicians’ motivations and provide useful information about political social relations. Political psychology is of interest to people who want to understand why things happen the way they do. Political psychology has roots in sociology, anthropology, philosophy, international relations, and economics, to name a few. A political psychologist may examine voting and elections, racism and prejudice, public opinion, and the media in order to reach certain conclusions.
Political psychologists aren’t usually limited to studying, observing, and diagnosing politicians. Political psychologists may also study the general public. A political psychologist might be interested in learning how citizens feel about political events and news, as well as what they think of their government officials. As a result, politicians are motivated to hire political psychologists to assist them in persuading the public, winning elections, and gaining support for various issues.
Political psychologists are frequently excellent journalists who can write books, essays, and commentaries about current events around the world. Someone who has studied political psychology may be able to provide an insightful analysis of current events. Political psychologists have developed tools that allow citizens to identify politicians who have a strong inclination toward dictatorship, war, and tyranny. These kinds of tools can assist citizens in avoiding electing corrupt leaders to office.
The Summer Institute in Political Psychology is one of the most well-known schools of political psychology in the United States. Before moving to Stanford University, the Institute was held on the campus of Ohio State University. Students studying political science or psychology are encouraged to attend the institute for three weeks of lectures and discussion.