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Understanding Support for European Integration Across Generations: A Study Guided by the Theory of Planned Behavior
Francesco La Barbera1, Icek Ajzen2
1Department of Political Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.
Europe'S Journal of Psychology
|March 8, 2021
Summary
Understanding voting behavior in the European Union (EU) is crucial. This study reveals perceived control over democratic processes significantly influences intentions to vote for EU integration, especially among older Italians concerned about national identity.
Area of Science:
- Social Psychology
- Political Science
- European Studies
Background:
- Recent political events highlight the need to understand voting behavior concerning the European Union (EU).
- Low voter turnout and referenda failures underscore a gap in comprehending public engagement with the EU.
- Existing research lacks a comprehensive model explaining voting intentions for EU integration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the psychological antecedents of voting intentions for EU integration using the Theory of Planned Behavior.
- To examine how perceived behavioral control and attitude influence voting intentions across different age groups in Italy.
- To identify specific beliefs underlying these attitudes and intentions regarding EU integration.
Main Methods:
- A quantitative study employing a structural equation model.
- Data collected from a convenience sample of 441 Italian participants of varying ages.
- Analysis of voting intentions, perceived behavioral control, and attitudes towards EU integration.
Main Results:
- The structural equation model demonstrated an excellent fit for the entire sample and age subgroups.
- Perceived behavioral control significantly impacted intentions to vote for EU integration across all age groups.
- Older participants' voting intentions were additionally influenced by their attitude, linked to concerns about national identity loss.
Conclusions:
- Perceived control over democratic participation is a key driver of voting intentions for EU integration.
- Age-related differences exist, with older individuals' attitudes towards national identity playing a significant role.
- The Theory of Planned Behavior provides a robust framework for understanding voting behavior in the context of European integration.
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