MERCED, Calif. (KFSN) — A North Valley professor needs you to know that for those who’ve ever felt depressed about politics, you are not alone.
“The Unhappy Citizen” explores relationships between politics and psychological well being and why disappointment, grief and despair are pushing Individuals away from civic engagement — when their voice tremendously issues.
UC Merced political scientist Professor Christopher Ojeda is behind the brand new e book.
He began writing in 2020, whereas noticing the toll the pandemic took on psychological well being.
Ojeda says the political panorama is split in methods we’ve not seen in a long time, triggering heightened emotional reactions.
He spoke to psychological well being professionals as a part of his analysis, which formed what would turn into his favourite chapter on “private relationships.”
“Practically each single one in all them talks about political disagreements within the private lives of their shoppers,” Ojeda mentioned. “I heard a couple of lady who’s being bullied in school for her political views. I heard a couple of couple who bickered each time the information got here on. I heard a couple of man who was sure his girlfriend was going to dump him if she came upon how he voted. It was story after story, and it was at all times so private”.
He says that perception impressed him to have a look at how he talks about politics.
Ojeda says one of many messages within the e book is the significance of holding elected officers accountable, to make sure they go insurance policies that profit your neighborhood.
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