Full Description
An exploration of how politics is undermining Americans' mental health
The Anxious State: Stress, Polarization, and Elections in America examines the increasing political stress and emotional polarization in the United States. It examines the physiological toll of exposure to political conflict, the role of media and social media in heightening anxiety, and the strain on personal relationships caused by polarization. The authors argue that politics has moved from the periphery of American life into its most intimate spaces, creating a state of heightened vigilance and emotional exhaustion. The Anxious State:
Examines the empirical health and stress impacts of politics in America today
Reports original data from a year-long series of surveys examining political stress and polarization during the 2024 election
Offers insights into the relationship between political stress and anxiety, generational cohort, and media consumption
An excellent text for both academic and general audiences, fits with curricula on political science, political behavior, political psychology, and political communications.
Contents
Title Page
Acknowledgment
Table of Contents
Chapter 1: The Anxious State
Section 1: Stress
Chapter 2: Political Stress - A Primer for the Anxious Citizen
Chapter 3: The Public Health Problem Hiding in Plain Sight
Chapter 4: Age, Gender, & Education: Understanding the Comorbidities of Political Stress
Chapter 5: How "Breaking News" is Breaking Us
Chapter 6: Stressing Social Ties
Section 2: Polarization
Chapter 7: Understanding Affective Polarization
Chapter 8: Unwarranted Disdain
Chapter 9: Cross Pressures and (More) Comorbidities
Chapter 10: Does the Media Really Divide Us?
Section 3: Conclusion
Chapter 11: The Big Picture
Chapter 12: The Anxious Cycle
Appendix: Survey Participants
