This chapter explores recent research on ambivalence and its impact on extreme beliefs and behaviors, distinguishing between intrapersonal and interpersonal conflicts. It discusses how individuals with mixed feelings towards extreme attitudes may be more prone to endorse extreme actions.
Psychologists usually expect ambivalence to be a driver of political apathy. But a new study appears to show a link between ambivalence in our views and the likelihood that we’ll support extremist actions. Madeleine Finlay speaks to the study’s co-author Richard Petty, professor of psychology at Ohio State University, to find out what pushes people to take extreme actions, how politics could be driving this behaviour and how it could be combated. Help support our independent journalism at
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