I Do Discuss Politics: Overcoming the Fear of Discussing a Polarized Election

• In Event: Fostering Students' Political Engagement

Abstract

This paper reports on findings of a study investigating the impact that political polarization, specifically affective polarization, has on discussing controversial issues during a hotly contested election. Polarization creates intense electoral conflict that incites fear of alienating friends and family, causing Social Studies students to refuse to discuss politics at home and at school. Parents and teachers who create an open climate for discussion have more success discussing election issues despite the intense conflict created by polarization. This paper reviews the case of a teacher and a parent whose efforts to foster an open climate for discussion were successful in alleviating fears and encouraging reluctant discussants to participate in election issues discussions.

Author

• Ann Herrera Ward, University of Wisconsin - Madison