4 Voting behaviour and the media

Question 1

Class dealignment

Answer 1

The process where individuals no longer identify themselves as
belonging to a certain class and for political purposes fail to make a class connection with their voting pattern.

Question 2

Partisan dealignment

Answer 2

The process where individuals no longer identify themselves on a long-term basis by being associated with a certain political party.

Question 3

Governing
competency

Answer 3

The perceived ability of the governing party in office to manage the
affairs of the state well and effectively. It can also be a potential view
of opposition parties and their perceived governing competency if
they were to secure office.

Question 4

Disillusion and
apathy

Answer 4

A process of disengagement with politics and political activity. Having no confident in politics and politicians as being able to solve issues and make a difference. Manifested in low turnout at elections and
poor awareness of contemporary events.

Question 5

Manifesto

Answer 5

In its manifesto, a political party will spell out in detail what actions and programmes it would like to put in place if it is successful in the next election – a set of promises for future action

Question 6

Mandate

Answer 6

The successful party following an election claims it has the authority (mandate) to implement its manifesto promises and also a general
permission to govern as new issues arise.