Perceptions of 'Public Opinion' and 'Public' Opinion Expression

Abstract

ABSTRACT A large number of studies have been devoted to the impact of perceptions of opiniondistributions on the expression of public opinion. In the present study we propose thatperceptions of opinion distributions have implications that go beyond influencingindividual issue stances, but rather influence respondents’ willingness to engage inpolitical activities. Specifically, we examine the link between opinion perceptionsand two dimensions of political participation: participatory behavior involving public expression of opinion, and participatory behavior that does not involve the publicexpression of a person’s opinion. Based on data collected as part of the AmericanNational Election Study, we examine the role that communication variables, groupmembership, attitude strength, and perceptions of public opinion play in predictingpublic and non-public forms of participation in the US. Implications for research inthe areas of political participation and public opinion expression are outlined.