The Emotional Impact of Populist Parties on Happiness
If you find yourself feeling unhappy, fearful, or threatened by the changing world around you, the last thing you might expect is to turn to a political party that reinforces those negative emotions. However, for voters who support far-right populist parties like Germany’s Alternative for Germany (AfD), this seems to be the case.
Recent research by two investigators found that AfD supporters started off unhappy and only grew unhappier as they engaged with the party’s negative rhetoric. Despite the party’s controversial status and use of Nazi-era slogans, its support has been on the rise, with significant gains in elections over the past few years.
This trend of right-wing populism is not limited to Germany, as similar movements have gained traction in other European countries as well, influencing voter behavior and emotions. Studies show that individuals who align with populist parties may experience a temporary sense of empowerment, but ultimately, the negative rhetoric can lead to a decline in well-being.
While long-term supporters of these parties may stabilize in terms of happiness, new supporters and those less committed may be more susceptible to the detrimental effects of negative political discourse. This dynamic raises questions about the relationship between politics, emotions, and personal well-being.