Impacts of Differences in Political Ideologies on Students&#039; Social Relationships

Jessa Marie  L. Alvarez,; Eunice Nicolle  R. Guyod,; Nikko  C. Balao,

Impacts of Differences in Political Ideologies on Students' Social Relationships

Eunice Nicolle R. Guyod | Nikko C. Balao | Jessa Marie L. Alvarez

Discipline: social sciences (non-specific)

Abstract:

Political ideologies have a significant impact on an individual's social relationships especially during political discussions, wherein it can manifest either positive or negative consequences. Previous research has revealed that individuals may refrain from engaging in political discussions if they perceive political differences with their family or friends, as tight-knit relationships often result in similar political affiliations, at the same time teachers and employees can shape young people’s societal involvement by bringing their ideologies within institutions. Furthermore, when political discussions turn into a fixed pattern of disagreement, there is a tendency for individuals to withdraw from the conversation. With these occurrences, the researchers interviewed 10 students and used a semi-structured interview guide aimed at exploring how differences in political ideologies affect students' social relationships, particularly with their family, peers, and teachers or mentors. The findings revealed that students view differences in political ideologies as an avenue for national progress, emphasizing the importance of respect and acknowledgment in conversing with individuals holding different political ideologies. However, four out of 10 respondents avoid political discussions within the family due to differing political ideologies, prioritizing family relationships over ideological debates, while a similar proportion choose to compromise pride to maintain friendships despite the pain it caused them. Moreover, students tend to listen to and respect teachers' political ideologies, as they are more knowledgeable and are considered supreme over them.

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