Trapped in a Vicious Cycle of Political Negativity and Incivility on Social Media? Yes, but Only Before Elections
Published online on December 23, 2025
Abstract
American Politics Research, Volume 54, Issue 3, Page 325-339, May 2026.
Numerous studies show that negative and uncivil political content on social media – where politicians criticize and insult each other – boosts voters’ engagement. While research suggests this engagement may fuel further negativity and incivility, this ...
Numerous studies show that negative and uncivil political content on social media – where politicians criticize and insult each other – boosts voters’ engagement. While research suggests this engagement may fuel further negativity and incivility, this ...