Episode 6: The Psychology of Political Polarisation
Episode Description
Join us for the sixth episode in the Insight Series hosted by the Southwest BPS committee, offering a critical and relational perspective on this psychosocial phenomenon with the help of Dr. Lita Crociani-Windland and Dr. Rosa Maryon, and is aimed at those working, teaching and researching in the fields of psychology, sociology, and politics.
Date: Tuesday 28 July 2026
Time: 13.00 -14.00
Duration: 1 hour
This episode is free to Society members.
This episode is available to book until 12.30 on Tuesday 28 July 2026 and is available in English only.
Any bookings after the 12.30 on Tuesday 28 July, will have access to the recording
Non-members: £10.00 (Inc VAT)
Not yet a member? Join today to access this episode and the full Insight Series.
What will this episode cover?
There has been an escalating division in social and political spheres, with many current polarised positions that dictate a non-negotiable admission of ‘us or them’; right or left wing, Brexit, immigration and citizenship, Palestine Israeli conflict, gender and sexuality, abortion, vaccines, and climate change. This divide is quite palpable with approaching these issues evoking war zones riddled with anxiety, often hostility and the risk of finding oneself crossing to the side of ‘other’ or enemy.
In the psychological field, we encounter this tension not only in our personal and social life but in educational, clinical and research settings. Balinhas (2023) identifies that most research on political polarisation seems to overlook the affective and psychological understanding involved in political polarisation. How fascinating and valuable for us then to be able to think deeply together about these phenomena to garner more understanding and to reflect through our various experiences and expertise.
Joining live? Take the opportunity to ask questions and engage directly with the speakers during the Q&A.
Meet the Speakers
Dr. Rosa Maryon
Rosa is a Senior Lecturer in Politics and International Politics at UWE - her research focuses on the connections between neoliberalism and insecurity. Rosa will be discussing the connections between neoliberal policies, rising socio-economic inequalities and political polarisation in the UK and beyond.
Dr. Lita Crociani-Windland
Lita is a Senior Lecturer in Sociology and Psycho-Social Studies at UWE - her research interests focus on affective dynamics at different levels of society including politics. Lita's focus will be on the role of affect in current political dynamics, including polarisation and narcissistic cultures
Moderated by Doaa Morsy
Doaa is a lecturer in psychology at UWE and a counselling psychologist. She is a member of the Southwest BPS committee and is passionate about social justice issues within the field of psychology.
Branch Spotlight
This episode is proudly hosted by the Southwest Branch Committee. The session offers an opportunity to connect with the Branch, learn more about its work in the Southwest, and discover how you can engage with local activity and events.
Not a member?
Join today to access the full Insight Series, and a wide range of professional resources, learning opportunities, and events across the Society.
This episode has been organised by Member Networks Team. For any enquiries, please contact conferences@bps.org.uk