Study Links Neuroticis to Liberal Ideology in Young Americans
David Lindfield
February 14, 2026 - 10:00 am
New research suggests that the relationship between personality and political beliefs in the United States varies significantly by age, with higher levels of neuroticism associated with liberal ideology among younger Americans but not among older generations.
The findings come as neuroticism, a personality trait linked to anxiety, sadness, and irritability, appears to be on the rise.
The research, published in the International Social Science Journal, indicates a generational divide that may reflect the differing social and economic environments experienced by Americans who came of age in different historical periods.
Social scientists have long observed that political polarization in the United States increasingly follows generational lines.
https://slaynews.com/news/study-links-neuroticis-liberal-ideology-young-americans/