Summary
The American Psychological Association’s annual Stress in America survey (2024) found that political stress hit near-historic levels ahead of the 2024 presidential election. More than three-quarters of adults (77%) cited the future of the nation as a significant stressor; 56% said the 2024 election could be “the end of democracy in the U.S.”; and 72% feared the election results could lead to violence. The report is notable for finding that political stress was bipartisan — both Republicans and Democrats reported high levels.
Key Points
- 77% of adults cited “the future of our nation” as a significant source of stress — the most commonly reported stressor.
- 73% cited the economy; 69% cited the 2024 presidential election specifically.
- Election stress in 2024 (69%) was higher than 2020 (68%) and significantly higher than 2016 (52%).
- 72% worried election results could lead to violence.
- 56% said the election could mark the end of democracy — including 62% of Democrats, 58% of independents, and 51% of Republicans.
- 64% felt their rights are under attack.
- 82% worried people are basing values/opinions on false or inaccurate information.
- 41% considered moving to a different country; 39% considered moving to a different state due to political climate.
- 32% reported political climate causing strain with family; 30% limit time with family due to differing values.
- Despite stress, 77% said they intended to vote; 51% felt more compelled to volunteer/support causes.
- 61% felt hopeful about the change the election would bring.
Newsletter Angles
- The bipartisan nature of political stress is analytically underused — both sides are equally stressed, but for mirror-image reasons. The country is stressed at each other.
- 82% misinformation worry vs. 61% election hope: Americans simultaneously believe the information environment is broken and remain hopeful. Cognitive dissonance as a political condition.
- 41% considering leaving the country — an extraordinary data point. Not a fringe sentiment.
- Connects to Political Stress concept: the APA’s annual survey is the benchmark dataset for tracking this phenomenon.
Entities Mentioned
- American Psychological Association — publisher; annual survey since at least 2016
- The Harris Poll — survey methodology partner
Concepts Mentioned
- Political Stress — core topic; quantitative benchmark
- Echo Chamber and Polarization — 82% worry about misinformation; 30% limit family contact
Quotes
“I think that after the upcoming election the country will experience a period of unrest. People are not going to easily accept the results.” — 45-year-old Black female respondent
Notes
Large-sample national poll conducted by The Harris Poll — methodology is sound and well-established. Survey conducted in October 2024 before election results were known. The 2024 survey specifically emphasized political stress; the report title “A Nation in Political Turmoil” reflects editorial framing. Results reflect pre-election anxieties, not post-election responses.