This study investigates how voters perceive candidates' displays of compassion.
Why Candidates Emphasize Compassion: The article examines the strategic motivations behind politicians showcasing empathy.
Research Methodology*
Drawing from survey data and content analysis, we offer a nuanced perspective on this emotional appeal in campaigns.
Key Findings: Our results reveal that perceived compassion correlates with voter support across diverse political contexts.
Beyond Traditional Messaging*
We demonstrate how emphasizing care resonates differently than focusing solely on policy expertise or competence.
The Broader Political Science Context: This research contributes to debates about emotion in politics and the evolution of democratic discourse, particularly relevant for understanding contemporary US elections.
| Who Cares? Explaining Perceptions of Compassion in Candidates for Office was authored by Jared McDonald. It was published by Springer in Pol. Behav. in 2021. |
