Psychoanalytic Perspectives on Populism

In this article, I discuss some psychoanalytic aspects of populism, an anti-pluralistic political perspective, and the attraction of vulnerable groups to a populist leader. I stress Freud's work on group psychology and utilize contemporary writings to illustrate the plight of vulnerable groups and some of the reasons for their attraction to powerful, aggressive, leaders. The autobiographical report, Hillbilly Elegy (Vance, 2016), is central to my discussion. Profound economic disruptions can result in a group's loss of self-esteem and sense of empowerment. Thus, these vulnerable groups attempt to deal with such traumatic experiences by utilizing maladaptive defense mechanisms, such as denial and projection, in order to protect themselves from unbearable negative emotions. A populist leader takes advantage of the group's vulnerability to achieve his or her political ends. Vulnerable communities require not just realistic economic revitalization, but social and emotional interventions. The understandings outlined here may provide guidance, particularly by promoting the development of supportive mentoring relationships and facilitating improved parenting, and educational approaches that focus on emotional development.