Introduction to Political Psychology

Schemas, cognitive structures that organize knowledge and guide information processing, are fundamental in shaping political judgments. They consist of preconceived notions about political entities including parties, ideologies, and individuals that affect how information is perceived and interpreted. For instance, an individual with a schema that associates an opposing political party with corruption may filter new information through this lens, leading to an automatic dismissal or reinterpretation of positive news about that party.

The influence of schemas is further compounded by the social context in which individuals operate. Group norms and values often dictate what is deemed acceptable within a political discourse. This social interdependence affects not only personal judgments but also broader political ideologies that dominate public discussions.