Local Social Spending Mitigates the Impact of Economic Hardship on Political Dissatisfaction
2025-02-27
This study investigates the impact of economic hardship on political dissatisfaction in the Netherlands and whether local social spending can mitigate this effect. Using data from the Netherlands Longitudinal Life Course Study, the research finds that economic hardship does increase political dissatisfaction, but higher levels of local social spending significantly reduce this effect, particularly for those experiencing long-term hardship. This may be attributed to feelings of gratitude for received benefits or positive evaluations of government responsiveness. The study also highlights that persistent economic hardship and an accumulation of economic problems exacerbate political dissatisfaction.