Publication Type: Poster
Review Method: Peer Reviewed
Abstract: The high level and frequency of political cynicism in contemporary democracies is often considered a serious threat for democracy. However, the concept has only received scant attention in political psychology. The current work therefore introduces this variable exploring its psychological aspects. In this regard, the validity of political cynicism, its status as a dispositional variable, and its predictive utility are investigated. Several noteworthy results were obtained. Political cynicism could be empirically distinguished from the closely related constructs of personal cynicism and political trust. We also showed significant relationships between political cynicism and the Five-Factor Model personality dimensions Neuroticism, Agreeableness and Openness. Importantly, we also obtained a substantive relationship between political cynicism and racism. Finally, political cynicism was strongly related to a more general political negativity factor incorporating political normlessness, isolation, and estrangement. Implications of our findings and directions for future research are discussed.

Publication Type: Conference Paper/Unpublished Manuscript
Abstract: This paper shows how strategic news coverage of politics can cause political cynicism and affect political participation. But only for some.

Publication Type: Conference Paper/Unpublished Manuscript
Abstract: In this paper we study characteristics of politically cynical citizens, and the relationship between cynicism and political behavior, based on our newly developed political cynicism measure in the Dutch Parliamentary Election Study of 2006.

Publication Type: Conference Paper/Unpublished Manuscript
Review Method: Peer Reviewed
Abstract: This paper analyzed how two exogenous latent variables, personal cynicism and media use, influenced two endogenous latent variables, political efficacy and political cynicism. Scholars have shown that both personal cynicism and media use have predicted people’s political views. Most research has not investigated this relationship using structural equation modeling. A data set from The National Election Survey was used for analysis of a hybrid model showing the relationship between the independent and dependent variables. The fit indices showed that the model was a good fit. Using modified indices, a modified hybrid model was created. Personal cynicism affects both political efficacy and political cynicism. Media use influences political efficacy. The more individuals report watching news, the more they believe they cannot influence the political process.

Publication Type: Conference Paper/Unpublished Manuscript
Review Method: Peer Reviewed
Abstract: Drawing on survey data and past studies about The Daily Show, this paper seeks to understand the relationship between the “fake news” TV program and cynicism. Some have applauded the program for its satirical perspectives about politics and the news media. Others have criticized the program for its cynical overtones, suggesting that the program fosters cynicism toward government, politics, and the news media, which leads to a lack of participation in democratic society, especially in the young adult population.

While it is difficult to determine causality, this research examines whether there is a correlation between cynicism and viewing The Daily Show, whether viewers of the program tend to be more cynical then non-viewers, and if being cynical suggests inaction in the political process. Findings suggest that the surveyed population (college students) exhibit cynical attitudes towards politics, government, and the news media but there is little connection to viewing The Daily Show. Despite levels of cynicism, survey respondents were likely to participate in the political process. Findings also indicate that viewers tended to exhibit more political efficacy and higher likelihood of participation than non-viewers.