Examining the Effects of Affective Polarization, Cognitive Flexibility, and Social Support on Young Adults’ Political Interest

Pallavi S; Madhushree A M

doi:10.36948/ijfmr.2026.v08i03.78278

Examining the Effects of Affective Polarization, Cognitive Flexibility, and Social Support on Young Adults’ Political Interest

Author(s)	Ms. Pallavi S, Ms. Madhushree A M
Country	India
Abstract	This study examines how 200 young adults, ages 18 to 25, are affected by affective polarization, cognitive flexibility, and social support in terms of their political interest. The study used validated scales, such as the Affective Polarization Scale, Cognitive Flexibility Scale, Social Support Questionnaire (Short Form), and Political Interest Scale, to measure the constructs using a quantitative correlational and regression design. High cognitive flexibility (30.5% high, 69.5% moderate), very high social support (87%), and moderate levels of affective polarization (91.5%) and political interest (79%), according to descriptive analyses. Strong negative associations between political interest and affective polarization (r = -0.984), cognitive flexibility (r = -0.990), and social support (r = -0.986) were found in correlation analyses, which was unanticipated. Regression analyses supported these variables as predictors, accounting for 97–98% of the variance in political interest, although high R² levels indicate possible overfitting. ANOVA findings indicated substantive sociodemographic differences, and education and socioeconomic status moderated polarization and interest. The results contradict conventional expectations, and increased polarization, adaptive thinking, and tight social networks could contribute to political disengagement in polarized environments through emotional exhaustion or liking for interpersonal harmony. The findings emphasize the necessity of specific civic education and emotionally safe environments to enable constructive political engagement among young adults. Limitations are cross-sectional design and sample composition, calling for longitudinal and cross-cultural research to maximize generalizability.
Keywords	affective polarization, cognitive flexibility, social support, political interest, young adults
Published In	Volume 8, Issue 3, May-June 2026
Published On	2026-05-19
DOI	https://doi.org/10.36948/ijfmr.2026.v08i03.78278

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Examining the Effects of Affective Polarization, Cognitive Flexibility, and Social Support on Young Adults’ Political Interest

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