A recent study conducted by professors from Arizona State University and Stanford University, highlighted by CNN, shed light on children’s perspectives about the 2024 U.S. presidential candidates.
The New York Post reported that the study revealed opinions from kids in blue and red states on Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, shaped by their regional political leanings.
Fourth graders from New Jersey, Texas, and Arizona participated in the research, conducted by Asheley Landrum from Arizona State University and Shanto Iyengar of Stanford University.
Anderson Cooper covered the story during a Wednesday broadcast. The study, though not published in a scholarly journal, was reported by CNN as part of an investigative report.
The interviews took place in May and September, assessing children's views on Kamala Harris and Donald Trump. Landrum, who holds a PhD in psychological sciences, sought one-word reactions from the children upon hearing each candidate's name. This study aimed to understand how regional politics influence young minds.
In her questionnaire, Landrum first asked, “What’s the first word that pops into your head when you hear the name Kamala Harris?” A Texas boy promptly replied, “Liar,” while a Texas girl labeled Harris as “selfish” and elaborated that “girls are a little dramatic sometimes.”
Another Texas girl questioned the suitability of a woman as president, stating, “I just don’t think a woman would be right for our president.” When probed further, she explained, “I think ’cause only boys have been president before and that they would be more stronger.”
Landrum then turned the focus to Donald Trump, asking, “What’s the first word that pops into your head when you hear the name Donald Trump?” Responses varied significantly.
A New Jersey girl described Trump as “pure evil,” while a Texas girl expressed admiration, saying, “Donald Trump is giving his life and his heart.” The study also addressed Trump’s reputation as a “convicted felon” tied to his “hush money” case. When asked if it was appropriate for a convicted felon to become president, a Texas boy simply said, “Yes.”
From Democratic-leaning states like New Jersey, children were much more likely to express negative views about Trump. Conversely, kids from Republican-leaning states displayed similar negative sentiments towards Kamala Harris, albeit less frequently.
Landrum, who teaches at the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism, also played an active role in political donations during the study period.
She donated $20 to Kamala Harris’ super PAC in July and identified as an independent in Arizona. Iyengar, her colleague at Stanford, previously contributed $550 to Barack Obama’s campaign in 2008. Despite their political engagements, they strived to maintain objectivity throughout the study.
The children’s statements highlighted stark differences in viewpoints tied to their geographic and political environments. One black girl, despite supporting Kamala Harris' milestone candidacy as potentially the first black woman president, said, “My vote’s kind of still on Trump.” These mixed reactions underscore the divisive political landscape influencing even young minds.
The professors' study is part of a broader exploration into how children form political opinions and the extent to which these views are influenced by their surroundings. The research suggests that political inclinations are shaped early, reflecting the ideologies prevalent in their households and communities.
Shanto Iyengar, apart from his research, maintains a focus on the psychological aspects of political communication. The findings from this study point to significant regional biases in children’s perceptions of political figures.
The notion of Trump as “brave” emerged among children in New Jersey, following an incident where he reportedly survived a gunshot at a rally in Butler, Pa., on July 13. This admiration starkly contrasts with the more critical views from those in blue states.
Asheley Landrum's decision to involve children in political discussions brings new insights into the origins of political bias. While these findings do not appear in scholarly journals, their relevance remains significant in understanding youth perspectives.
Investigative reports like this reveal the deep-seated political divisions even among the youngest members of society. The study emphasizes the importance of open dialogue and education in fostering informed future voters.
