Explain the concept of political efficacy.

Political Beliefs And Attitudes Questions



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Explain the concept of political efficacy.

Political efficacy refers to an individual's belief in their ability to understand and influence political events and decisions. It encompasses the confidence and trust that citizens have in their own capacity to participate in the political process and make a difference. Political efficacy can be divided into two dimensions: internal efficacy and external efficacy. Internal efficacy refers to an individual's belief in their own knowledge and skills to understand and engage in politics, while external efficacy refers to the belief that the government and political institutions will respond to citizens' actions and concerns. High levels of political efficacy are associated with increased political engagement, participation, and a sense of empowerment, while low levels of political efficacy may lead to apathy, disengagement, and a lack of trust in the political system.