The Impact of Political Polarization on Social Cohesion Among Youth After the 2024 General Election

Abstract

This study examines the impact of political polarization on social cohesion among youth following the 2024 general election. With the increasing polarization in political discourse globally, young people—who are often at the forefront of political movements and social change—are particularly susceptible to the effects of ideological divides. Using a mixed-methods approach, the research explores how political fragmentation influences social interactions, trust, and shared values among young people in the aftermath of a highly contentious election. The findings reveal that heightened political polarization has led to a notable decline in intergroup trust and increased social fragmentation among youth, with partisan affiliations significantly shaping their social networks. Moreover, political discussions, both online and offline, have intensified divisions, resulting in the weakening of collaborative efforts across ideological lines. Despite these challenges, the study also identifies emerging forms of resilience, where some youth are actively engaging in dialogue and bridging divides to foster social unity. The implications of these findings suggest that political polarization has a lasting impact on social cohesion, calling for strategies that promote inclusive and constructive political engagement to strengthen community ties in the post-election period. This research contributes to the growing body of literature on political polarization and its effects on social fabric, particularly focusing on its implications for youth in a digitally connected world.