Kamryn Klaas

Abstract:

Cognitive dissonance is a psychological feeling people aim to reduce, and is caused by a misalignment between actions and preferences. The comparison of Republicans’ and Democrats’ dissonance regarding morals and policy has not been studied for the current political climate, so additional research must be conducted. The intention of this study was to uncover any trends between these factors to give insight into ideological shifts, psychological discontent, and continuity within voters. To study these trends, a survey utilizing mostly likert scale questions was implemented and given to adults that voted in the 2024 presidential election. The survey included the Moral Foundations Questionnaire, policy-related questions, and dissonance measurement questions. No statistically significant relation was found between the comparison of Republicans’ and Democrats' dissonance regarding morals and policy. Though, many voters did report cognitive dissonance, and misalignment within their morals and their political affiliation. Although it was not significant, Democrats reported more dissonance regarding policy within their party, Republicans reported more dissonance regarding morals within their party, and overall Republicans showed more cognitive dissonance than Democrats. These findings contribute to the understanding that the ideological divide in the political climate is growing, and with further research insight could be found into why, and how politicians could lessen voters’ discontent or misalignment.