CHAPTER 1

INTRODUCTION

This chapter contains the following: (1) Background of the Study, (2) Conceptual

Framework or Paradigm of the Study, (3) Statement of the Problem, (4) Hypothesis, (5)

Theoretical Framework, (6) Significance of the Study, (7) Definition of Terms, (8) Scope

of Delimitation of the Study/Delimitation of the Study.

Background of the Study

In the context of Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS) education, the aim is

for students to develop a deep understanding of political ideologies. HUMSS strand is

designed to expand the students’ skills in understanding individuals and society. Students

who choose this route will have a better appreciation and knowledge of culture, society,

politics, art, and literature that provides a closer look into the interplay of different aspects

of society. HUMSS courses equip students to understand various people’s life

perspectives, analyze and create objective opinions about individuals, organizations,

politics, culture, technology, and religious beliefs (Calub, 2024). It prospers an in-depth

understanding of issues in the society as well as the complex of human conditions. The

HUMSS strand is devised to encourage critical thinking, empowering learners to prudently

engage with different political philosophies. Ideally, this education should help learners

form well-informed political preferences that reflect their personal beliefs or preferences,

ultimately leading them to participate thoughtfully in processes of democracy. An

individual’s culture and beliefs are molded and shaped in their adolescence, and in this

stage wherein they have not passed or graduated yet from their high school years, which

is proved to be the most crucial years in personal development. HUMSS alumni, the

people who have been exposed to a wide range of historical, philosophical, and social

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teachings, should ideally carry these ideologies and views into adulthood, influencing their

political choices in a way that aligns with their learned values and preferences. Being an

alumnus, a student’s convictions, ideals, and perceptions are greatly influenced by their

most extensive environment, and education, through which the HUMSS strand greatly

influence those who chose this track in their senior high school (Garibaldi et al., 2014).

However, the reality often become inadequate of this ideal. Despite the structured

educational framework, various external influence such as conditions with regard to

economic status, exposure to media, peer and family influences and social circles, have

significantly impact political preferences, leading to a disconnect between what alumni

believe ideologically and how they vote or engage politically. However, according to

Kulachai et al. (2023), education can have a significant impact on individuals’ voting

decisions. Research has consistently shown that individuals with higher levels of

education are more likely to vote. A study by Nie et al. (1976), found that educational

attainment is one of the strongest predictors of political participation. Over and above that,

there is a lack of research specifically focused on how the HUMSS curriculum affects the

long-term political preferences of its graduates or the alumni. While there have been

studies on political engagement and education in general, there’s still a research gap when

it comes to understanding the specific impact of HUMSS education on its alumni and their

afterthoughts when it comes to their political ideologies and how it impacts their political

preferences.

People develop their political identities through being influenced by many factors

beyond formal education, such as family, friends, and the broader cultural environment.

These factors can sometimes result in preferences and partiality in politics that don’t

necessarily match the ideologies taught in school. Furthermore, research indicates that

youth who are partaking in civic engagement and voter’s education are most probable to

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be cultured when it comes to their political ideologies and in becoming educated citizens

and voters (Gilman & Stokes, 2020). In addition, the current climate regarding politics,

characterized by growing contrasting groups, set of opinions or beliefs and misinformation,

complicates the relationship between political ideologies and preferences, creating a gap

in research between the intentional outcomes of HUMSS education and the actual political

behaviors of alumni.

This study seeks to explore and better understand how Humanities and Social

Sciences (HUMSS) education influences the political ideologies and preferences of the

alumni of the strand. By looking into the factors that align or misalign ideology and

preference, the study can contribute to a better understanding of how people, most

especially the graduates of the HUMSS strand, develop their political beliefs, especially in

the Filipino and political context. As future voters, the choices with regard to politics of

HUMSS alumni will shape the country's governance, societal developments, and overall,

its future. Understanding and comprehending the origins of these choices is crucial for

fostering a well-informed and active electorate. In a politically divided society, this research

could offer insights into how education can either bridge or widen ideological gaps, helping

to foster more meaningful political discussions.

In essence, this study aims to fill the gap in research and in understanding how

HUMSS education shapes the political ideologies and preferences of its alumni, with the

broader goal of improving how education supports informed and rational political

participation.

Conceptual Framework

The conceptual framework in this study states that the political ideologies of

HUMSS alumni serve as the independent variable, which is assumed to the influences or

has a relationship with their political preferences, the dependent variable.

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 The paradigm shown below shows the interrelationship between the independent

and dependent variables. In the independent variable, political ideologies refer to the

beliefs, values, and even ideas that the HUMSS alumni have with regard to the talk of

politics, governance, and the government. Essential things such as the alumni’s views on

eclectic issues in politics, including democratic, economic, and social justice, as well as

the roles of the government.

Meanwhile, in the dependent variable, political preferences refer to the political

choices and behaviors that are actual and exhibited by the HUMSS alumni. Important

things such as preferred political parties, their candidates, their voting behavior, and the

general political engagement of HUMSS alumni are considered.

Independent Variables Dependent Variables

Sex Political Ideologies

Socio-economic
Voting Preferences
Status

Figure 1.1 Paradigm of the Study

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Statement of the Study

This research aims to examine the relationship between political ideologies and

voting preferences among HUMSS alumni.

Specifically, it aims to answer the following questions:

1. What is the political ideology among HUMSS alumni when classified according

to:

A) Sex

B) Socioeconomic Status

2. What is the voting preference on HUMSS alumni when classified according to:

A) Sex

B) Socioeconomic Status

3. Is there a significant difference on the political ideologies among HUMSS alumni

when classified according to:

A) Sex

B) Socioeconomic Status

4. Is there a significant difference between the voting preferences among HUMSS

alumni when classified according to:

A) Sex

B) Socioeconomic Status

5. Is there a significant relationship on the political ideologies and voting

preferences of HUMSS alumni when classified according to:

A) Sex

B) Socioeconomic Status

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Hypothesis

The following null hypothesis are proposed based on the previous research questions:

1. Is there a significant difference on the political ideologies among HUMSS alumni

when classified according to:

A) Sex

B) Socioeconomic Status

2. Is there a significant difference on the voting preferences among HUMSS alumni

when classified according to:

A) Sex

B) Socioeconomic Status

3. Is there a significant relationship between the political ideologies and voting

preferences of HUMSS alumni when classified according to:

A) Sex

B) Socioeconomic Status

Theoretical Framework

This study explores the relationship between political ideologies and political

preferences among HUMSS alumni. The theoretical foundation of this research is

grounded in Political Socialization Theory, which states that individuals develop their

political ideologies through eclectic external influences such as family, the peers they

surround themselves, education they have received, as well as the media. Through

various agents of socialization, such as parents, peers, and schools, the lifelong

experiences of political socialization play a key role in developing the traits of patriotism

and good citizenship (Longley, 2024). These ideologies significantly shape their voting

behavior, party affiliation, and overall political engagement.

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 According to Longley (2024), political socialization ‘s process starts in childhood

and continues throughout one’s lifetime. Individuals who are politically socialized are more

likely to participate actively in the political process. He also added that political scientists

have concluded that political beliefs and behavior are not genetically inherited. Instead,

individuals decide throughout their lifetimes where and how they fit into the political values

and processes of their country through the process of political socialization. It is through

this learning process that the standards and behaviors that contribute to a smoothly and

peacefully functioning political system are passed between generations. He concluded

that it is during the political socialization process that people typically develop their levels

of belief in the legitimacy of the political system and their level of political efficacy, or power,

to influence that system.

To further develop the understanding of this study, the Rational Choice Theory

also offers insights in this quantitative research as it states that an individual, in order to

make rational choices, use rational calculations and achieve outcomes that are lined up

with their own personal objectives. According to Ganti and Rubin (2024), these results are

also associated with maximizing an individual's self-interest. Using rational choice theory

is expected to result in outcomes that provide people with the greatest benefit and

satisfaction, given the limited options they have available. They also followed up with

stating that Rational Choice Theory assumes that individuals, or rational actors, try to

actively maximize their advantage in any situation and, therefore, consistently try to

minimize their losses. This theory gives insights on how individuals, which includes the

HUMSS alumni, make decisions with regard to politics by offers insight into how people,

including HUMSS alumni, make political decisions based on their ideologies and beliefs

in what they perceive to be suited with their best interest. It suggests that people, with their

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very own personal values and beliefs tend to support positions in politics that align these

ideologies.

With the combinations of these two (2) theories, this research aims to understand

how political ideologies of HUMSS alumni correlate with their preferences in voting.

Significance of the Study

This study may be beneficial to the following sectors:

HUMSS Alumni. This study can provide much content for them to become informed and

reflective of their ideologies and how their education and some experiences mold these.

This research may become a beacon of hope and light for them to ponder upon the things

they want to improve in themselves regarding their political ideologies and preferences in

politics as well.

Educational Institutions. Schools that offer Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS)

programs, can utilize the findings of this research to understand how education may

influence ideologies in politics which can help educators as well in promoting and creating

a much politically informed environment for their students as well as how they can give

insights for future generations of HUMSS learners in understanding their own political

beliefs and how they might influence their everyday lives as citizens of the world.

Political Parties. This research will be beneficial to the political parties in the society as

this study might help them make better strategies in making their platforms that can target

the individuals whose ideologies are aligned with, in this way they can have better

connection with the voters as well as the upcoming ones.

Future Researchers. This research about the correlation between political ideologies and

political preferences may be able to provide an existing knowledge to those learners and

future researchers who wish to explore the similar study.

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Definition of Terms

For clarity and better understanding of the study, the following terms are given their

conceptual and operational definition:

HUMSS Alumni. Graduates from the Humanities and Social Sciences strand of

the Senior High School program in the Philippines. This group is characterized by their

academic focus on subjects related to human behavior, society, and culture (DepEd,

2016).

In this study, the term “HUMSS Alumni” refers to the individuals who will be

identified through survey questions confirming that they completed their senior high school

with the HUMSS program, and later on will become the respondents in this study.

Political Ideologies. Are structured sets of beliefs, values, and ideas that

individuals hold about the goals of politics and the role of government in society. They

typically guide individuals' views on issues like democracy, social justice, economic

policies, and individual rights (Heywood, 2017).

In this study, the term “Political Ideologies” will be measured using a questionnaire

with Likert Scale, where the respondents will rate their agreement with statements

reflecting different political ideologies and then later on will be the basis for the score that

will be categorized to identify findings.

Voting Preferences. This refers to the choice made by individuals when casting

their votes in an election or survey, indicating which candidate, party, or option they

support (Fiveable Library, 2024).

In this study, the term “Voting Preferences” will be assessed through survey

questions for the respondents, where questions such as their voting history, party

affiliation and candidate preferences.

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Delimitations of the Study

This quantitative research investigates the relationship between political ideologies

and voting preferences among alumni of the Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS)

strand from Pototan National Comprehensive High School. The focus is on understanding

how the political ideologies acquired during their HUMSS education influence their political

preferences and behaviors after graduation.

The following objectives are what this research aims to address: (1) to determine

the most common political ideologies among HUMSS alumni from Pototan National

Comprehensive High School; (2) to identify the predominant political preferences of these

alumni; and (3) to examine if there is a significant relationship between the political

ideologies and voting preferences of the HUMSS alumni.

The study will be conducted in the month of August 2024, which includes the

phases of survey distribution, data collection, and initial analysis. This period is selected

to ensure the research reflects the current political ideologies and preferences of recent

HUMSS graduates. The study will be conducted in Pototan, specifically targeting alumni

from Pototan National Comprehensive High School. This research will involve HUMSS

alumni from Pototan National Comprehensive High School who meet the following criteria:

1) They should have completed their studies under the HUMSS strand, and 2) They should

be alumni from the school years 2021-2022, 2022-2023, or 2023-2024.

The study will employ a quantitative research approach using different methods

and instruments. A structured questionnaire will be developed to measure political

ideologies and preferences. The questionnaire will consist of 15 items that will utilize a

Likert Scale to determine the extent of agreement with various political ideology

statements and specific questions regarding political preferences, including party

affiliation, voting behavior, and candidate preferences.

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 Purposive sampling technique will be utilized in this study, as it allows the

researchers to focus on alumni who are accessible and ensures that only those who have

been exposed to this curriculum are included, making the findings more relevant and

meaningful. Additionally, purposive sampling will not only allow the researchers to

deliberately select individuals who fit the criterion but also ensure that they gather data

from participants who can provide the most relevant insights. The survey will be

administered online via Google Forms. The Google Form will be disseminated to the

selected respondents through their email addresses or other contact methods provided by

the school. The researchers will ensure that confidentiality is maintained throughout the

process.

Quantitative data analysis techniques will be employed. Descriptive statistics will

be used to summarize and describe the political ideologies and preferences of the

respondents. Inferential statistics, including correlation analysis, will be conducted to

determine the relationship between political ideologies and political preferences.

This provides a clear framework for the study, specifying the research focus,

objectives, timeframe, respondent characteristics, and methodologies to be used.

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 CHAPTER 2

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

The relationship between political ideologies and voting preferences is a

multifaceted area of research that has garnered significant interest in recent years. This

literature review seeks to integrate and synthesize existing research findings to elucidate

the complexities of this relationship, particularly among graduates from the Humanities

and Social Sciences (HUMSS) strand. The review will highlight knowledge gaps and

suggest future research directions.

Conceptual Literature

Political Ideology

Political ideology (liberal/conservative; left/right) refers to a set of beliefs, opinions,

and values that shape how people interpret their environment and how they think it should

be structured. Political ideology also refers to people being more liberal or conservative.

Moreover, it carries a lot of information about political candidates and can exert substantial

influence on voters' behaviors. (Krishna & Sokolova, 2017). Trust in institutions and policy

acceptance are significantly shaped by political ideologies. As an illustration, studies have

shown that political attitudes may strongly shape people's behavior towards social-political

issues, such as voting. Educational settings commonly make students or even graduates

confront many contrary views thus influencing them politically as they mature. In fact,

liberal arts institutions especially have been proven to turn students into liberals (Mariani

& Hewitt, 2018).

As such it is particularly important for understanding how students and graduates

come to make voting decisions, the forming of their political identity. Research has found

that young people develop political identities as a result of both their formal education and

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social experiences (Gsayers, 2009). In addition, college diversity is associated with

increases in political participation (Doyle & Skinner, 2017).

Political Ideologies play a very large part in who votes for whom, particularly with

the students and graduates more open to different political discourses. As an illustration,

it has been shown that a growing percentage of U.S. college graduates with liberal political

orientations are identifying as Democrats — demonstrating the influence education can

have on one's politics (Cox, 2022). A similar dynamic is found among student and

graduate voting behaviors, which typically show that ideologies and beliefs often

developed or amplified during the years spent at university — are key determinants of how

students vote. Students seeking to fulfill a sense of civic duty, those hoping to enact policy

change or elect certain candidates find their votes often align more closely with the groups

that hold similar ideology which enforcers of identity politics at all levels would be wise not

only recognizing these ideological underpinnings connected each group for political

purposes but insight into broader voting behaviors (returning once again how polarization

shapes who votes) as well (Weatherford, 2022).

Research shows people grouped as "ideologues" reliably predict how a political

cue will affect their vote, while groups of the candy/bacon type are less predictable in

which way they better see things. This emphasis reminds us that ideology matters not just

in terms of politics, but also across the spectrum of democratic engagement (Zimmerman,

2014).

In conclusion, political ideology affects trust in institutions and policy acceptance,

as well as voting behavior. Political ideology plays a large role in how students and

graduates vote, and therefore shapes the political identification of that generation. Results

to date suggest that political attitudes are shaped by both formal education linked with

curriculum diversity, and socialization experiences tied in part to college racial/ethnic

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composition. In addition, political ideology does have a major impact on voting behavior

among liberals and graduates who encounter many views in their educational environment.

In short, learning more about how education and ideology contribute to political identities

and vote choice would seem a prerequisite for intervening with the larger entrenchment of

system partisanship affecting dynamics around American politics. Questions of ideological

coherence and democratic participation are raised by this as well, underlining the fact that

we must give voice to various political perspectives in fashioning electoral results.

Voting Preference

Voting among young adults matters because young voters’ diversity, fresh

perspectives, and status as the future leaders of our nation make their voices critical in

shaping our nation’s future (Blass, 2024). Since the act of voting is habit-forming, young

people must engage in the polls early on It is imperative to raise awareness about the

factors that cause young people not to vote so that they may take action and encourage

themselves to vote. There have been various studies that have attempted to explain why

people participate in elections, but none take into account behavioral approaches (Hall,

2019).

According to Kulachai and Homyamyan (2023), The voting decisions of a

population are vital in forming the political structure of a country. Recognizing what

influences voters’ selections is key for politicians, candidates, and those crafting policy.

Voting decisions are at the heart of democratic societies, as they shape the composition

of governments and determine the policies that govern our lives. However, the choices

individuals, most especially the youth, make at the ballot box are influenced by a myriad

of factors that impact their decision-making process.

Voters also tend to have general ideological orientations and dispositions. While

most voters lack a well-articulated and clearly thought-out political ideology, they usually

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have some general ideological tendencies or predispositions. Some are strongly liberal

across the board, others strongly conservative, and still others are political moderates.

Some may tend to be liberal in one area, such as social issues, but conservative in another,

such as economic issues. These general ideological orientations influence voting (ICPSR,

2024).

In conclusion, young adult voter turnout is essential because of who we are as

diverse, innovative leaders of tomorrow. Voting in a presidential election is very much like

exercising; the earlier you start, and if barriers facing youth are recognized by adults early

enough to erase them for young voters before they even become aware of these potential

obstacles. In addition, voters usually derive relatively abstract ideological attitudes towards

liberalism or conservatism from their party identification. The second, especially important

detail is that the poll was broken down by political orientation & most importantly how some

voters were mixed on ideologies based upon what issue they are voting for. Young adults

also wield influence on their ability to shape the destinies of democratic societies by

deciding who they vote for. Knowing what encourages politically active youth to join in,

and the types of alignments they are likely to have been important for encouraging them

and making sure their voices influence politics. The removal of these barriers and the use

of a behavioral approach can help ensure genuine access to voting for people from all

walks of life, bringing with it their diverse range experiences into our politics.

Partisan Behavior

According to Duignan (2023), in democratic politics and government, a strong

adherence, dedication, or loyalty to a political party—or to an ideology or agenda

associated with a political party—usually accompanied by a negative view of an opposing

party. Extreme partisanship is generally regarded as detrimental to the functioning of

democratic governments, in part because of its typical basis in motivated reasoning and

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misperceptions of political reality. Among political leaders and officeholders, such “hyper

partisanship” is usually manifested in an unwillingness to cooperate or compromise on

important matters with leaders and officeholders of another party.

Based on a study made by Arruda et al. (2019), Partisanship had a consistent

positive effect on electoral participation across age and cohort. Democratic youth were

higher on nonelectoral participation for some cohorts, and Democrats and Republican

youth showed growth in nonelectoral participation at different historical moments.

Although younger cohorts of Americans are less politically engaged based on available

measures, political parties still remain a powerful force for political participation among

those who choose to affiliate. Youth’s partisan attachments and political behavior are best

understood in historical context.

In conclusion, the political behavior and partisan attachments of youth are best

placed in historical context as we see high levels of engagement and involvement oscillate

over time. Appreciating the history of youth politics and partisanship is critical for meeting

contemporary challenges, ensuring that sound democratic principles prevail.

Political Disputes with Income Inequality

Socioeconomic status refers to an individual, family, or group's relative place within

a society hierarchy based on their access to or control over valued items such as wealth

or social recognition and privileges. Under these ideas, members of a community might

be divided into different social strata based on the status values they have gained.

Typically, parental occupation and education, family income, power, and reputation are

major components of these values, and individuals of the different strata confront different

living conditions (Dowling & Youssef, 2017).

According to Yoon (2017), the education level and the percentage of primary

industry workers in the district have a significantly positive impact on turnout. As the

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proportion of the population over higher education in the district increases, voter turnout

towards the young adults grows.

Meanwhile, a study on the election turnout in Taiwan did not provide concrete

evidence of a relationship between income level and voter turnout. However, it does

provide some “empirical” evidence. The study conducted by Chang (2014) found, among

Taiwanese voters, income inequality wasn’t the only reason for lack of voter turnout, but

“the political disparity between the rich and the poor that grows with income inequality has

been the main reason why policy responses to poor people’s need are lacking.” (Chang,

2014). This study presents a chicken-or-the egg scenario. On the other hand, the

researcher Staples (2022) suggested that lower income people simply not vote because

the feel political policy doesn’t benefit them or has political policy left out their voices for

so long these voters feel disenfranchised.

In conclusion, political participation and voter turnout are highly affected by

socioeconomic status. Yes, higher levels of education are tied to greater participation in

the political system; but how income relates to turnout is more challenging. The lower

turnout among low-income individuals may also reflect income inequality and political

disenfranchisement, which suggests that transformative policies comprehensively

addressing these inequalities are needed to effectively integrate marginalized

communities in voting.

Emergence of Sex Divide in Youth Culture

Youth culture has long been associated with liberal or progressive thinking, protest

and resistance. But the idea that the young are a homogenous group of lefty radicals has

been challenged in a new study from King’s College London that suggests there is “an

emerging gender/sex divide” between young men and women (Omer, 2024).

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Some studies have explored how gender differences manifest in political ideologies

among students. In many countries in previous decades, women were more conservative

than men and less likely to participate in politics. Here, it is examined whether this

traditional gender gap persists today, or whether gender cleavages in the electorate have

converged, and whether the phenomenon of the modern gender gap, with women more

left wing, has become evident elsewhere.

Controlling for socio-economic characteristics and political attitudes reveals that

women are more likely than men to have voted and engaged in 'private' activism, while

men are more likely to have engaged in direct contact, collective types of actions and be

(more active) members of political parties (Bolzendahl & Coffe, 2016).

Research was conducted by Inglehart & Pippa (2014) wherein they examined

differences in students' political ideas based on their gender. In the past few decades,

women were less likely to vote and more conservative than men in a number of countries.

The researchers’ analysis examines whether the gap between the male and the female

sexes that has persisted over time remains and at present, whether ideological positions

in relation to gender within the electorate have converged as well as if behaviors observed

with regard to women's tendency toward leftist ideologies (the current from the gap

between the male and the female sexes) exist elsewhere.

While women tend to be more engaged in those 'private' kind of activism that

occurs far less often, they are also still typically joining the line at big elections (when

socioeconomic factors and political beliefs have been controlled for), while men appear to

be partaking much more both with direct forms of interaction as well party frequents or

party supporters, and preferably male or active members.

In conclusion, youth culture has often been linked with progressive thinking and

activism, but recent research challenges the notion that young people are uniformly liberal.

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The research indicates that while women engage more in private forms of activism and

vote in large elections, men are more active in direct political actions and party involvement.

The evolving gender divide in political ideologies and engagement challenges previous

assumptions about youth culture and political behavior. While women increasingly

participate in voting and private activism, men continue to dominate in direct political

actions and party membership. Understanding these gender-based differences is crucial

for addressing the dynamics of political participation and activism in contemporary society.

Political Science

Political science is the study of politics and power from domestic, international, and

comparative perspectives. It entails understanding political ideas, ideologies, institutions,

policies, processes, and behavior, as well as groups, classes, government, diplomacy,

law, strategy, and war. A background in political science is valuable for citizenship and

political action, as well as for future careers in government, law, business, media, or public

service (Northwestern University, 2024).

Political science courses expose adolescents to a spectrum of political theories,

ideologies and systems. The study of political ideologies (i.e., liberalism, conservatism,

socialism etc.,) exposes students to those who think differently than they do and question

their preconceptions. As these individuals advance in their studies, the educational

exposure commonly expands how they see complicated political and social matters as

well as introducing a more refined and informed understanding of their ideological position.

In conclusion, political science education introduces students to a range of political

theories and ideologies, such as liberalism, conservatism, and socialism. This exposure

challenges students to confront and question their preconceptions, broadening their

understanding of complex political and social issues and refining their ideological

perspectives. Studying political science equips individuals with a comprehensive

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understanding of political systems and behaviors, enriching their perspectives on political

and social issues. It fosters critical thinking and helps students appreciate diverse

viewpoints, which is essential for informed citizenship and various professional paths in

politics, law, and public service.

Political Socialization

Political socialization is how someone learn their political beliefs, identities and

actions. One's own political socialization, involving different agents such as parents, peers

and schools throughout one's lifetime process is among the more critical factors

determining what constitutes patriotism or good citizenship. The prominent consensus

among political scientists is that both political behavior and opinions are not passively

inherited genetically. Rather, through a process called political socialization citizens

throughout their lives select where and how they see themselves within the nation of their

country in respect to politics including its culture. In this process of learning, the values

and behaviors that are conducive to an orderly peaceful political system (and their normal

operation) get passed down from one generation to another. One of the clearest examples,

perhaps, is how people choose a political orientation for themselves (like whether they are

politically conservative and/or liberal). One is politically socialized from an early stage and

up until the end of one's life. Even voters who have never expressed an interest in politics

for years can suddenly become heavily involved with the political process as they age

(Longley, 2024).

According to Open Stax (2022), socialization is the slow process by which people

acquire values and beliefs and mature into adulthood; political socialization is the gradual

process by which people develop into political beings.8 It is via political socialization that

people acquire their political ideology in the widest sense. This covers their beliefs and

perspectives on social justice and climate change, in addition to the roles that citizens and

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the government should play in society. The likelihood that someone will be interested in

politics at all is also influenced by socialization.

In conclusion, political socialization is a fundamental process that shapes

individuals' political beliefs and behaviors through lifelong interaction with various social

agents. This ongoing process determines political orientations and engagement,

influencing how citizens perceive their roles and responsibilities within their political

systems. Understanding political socialization is crucial for comprehending how political

attitudes and behaviors are formed and evolve over time.

Rational Choice Theory

According to the rational choice theory, people make decisions and come to

conclusions that are in line with their own goals by using reasonable computations. These

outcomes are also linked to maximizing one's own interests. Given the restricted options

available to them, applying rational choice theory is supposed to produce outcomes that

maximize people's benefit and happiness (Ganti, 2024).

The decisions voters make, and whether those decisions are rational, have

profound implications on the functionality of a democratic society. When voting, voters

generally aim to be diligent and to optimize their choices, even if they make less rational

choices in the end. A well-functioning democracy relies upon its citizens to make rational

decisions, especially when voting in elections (i.e., selecting the most capable candidates

to achieve one's vision of an ideal society). Through their votes, individuals can help shape

the leadership, laws, and policies of their society. However, voters do not always behave

rationally. The importance of rational voting is clear when considering how numerous

historical cases have resulted in democratic societies electing leaders that have caused

great harm, example is the rise of Adolf Hitler and the National Socialist German Workers'

(Nazi) party via elections in Germany during the 1930s. While such tragedies may not

21
have been purely the result of voter irrationality, they do stress the importance of ensuring

rational voters (Lee et al., 2017).

McGann (2016) specified that it may appear that rational choice theory is a distinct

theoretical framework with its own daunting mathematical formula. Nonetheless, the

fundamental tenets of interpretive sociology and conventional political conduct are

strikingly like those of rational choice theory. In fact, a lot of statistical techniques used to

empirical political behavior presuppose axiomatic voter choice models. Rational choice

has contributed by formalizing what empirical political scientists do now and by offering

some new tools when it comes to individual voting behavior. But rational choice yields new,

surprising insights when individuals take collective voting choice—what elections mean

and what kind of policy consequences follow—into account. There is a normative

component to rational decision as well. The conventional view of democracy as popular

choice is illogical in the absence of voter rationality.

In conclusion, rational choice theory shares similarities with interpretive sociology

and conventional political conduct. It provides a formal framework for understanding voting

behavior and offers new insights into collective voting choices and their implications for

policy and democracy. Rational choice theory offers a framework for understanding

decision-making processes in voting by emphasizing the goal of maximizing personal

benefits. While the theory underscores the importance of rational voting for a functional

democracy, it also highlights the risks associated with irrational behavior. By integrating

rational choice theory with empirical political science, we gain a deeper understanding of

voting behavior and its impact on democratic processes. Ensuring rational decision-

making remains vital for the health of democratic societies.

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Cognitive Dissonance

Cognitive dissonance theory explains the relationships between the motivation,

perceptions and cognitions of an individual. It clarified the conditions that motivate

individuals to change their opinions, attitudes, beliefs or behaviors. The “cognition” is any

piece of knowledge that an individual has about themself or their environment. The theory

was based on the belief that people strive toward consistency within themselves and are

driven to make changes to reduce or eliminate an inconsistency (Newcastle University,

2023).

While models of voting behavior vary considerably, one common assumption of

models of both turnout and vote choice is that voting behavior is an expression of

preferences or beliefs. Whether voters are motivated by a desire to shift the outcome of

the election to their desired outcome, as in instrumental models, or by the desire to

express strong feelings on the part of themselves or of their group, as in intensity and

popularity models respectively, voting models assume that preferences are a variable in

the voting decision equation. One explanation for the impact of behaviors on beliefs is

cognitive dissonance which refers to one's internal need for consistency. If an individual

performs an activity that is antithetical to his beliefs, the individual may unconsciously

change his beliefs to alleviate the discomfort of having inconsistent attitudes and actions.

According to Sendhil & Washington (2017), cognitive dissonance theory predicts

that the act of voting for a candidate leads to a more favorable opinion of the candidate in

the future. Individuals find support for the empirical relevance of cognitive dissonance to

political attitudes. The researchers examined the presidential opinion ratings of voting age

eligibles and ineligibles two years after the election. The researchers also found smaller

effects when they compared polarization in opinions of senators elected during high

23
turnout presidential campaign years with senators elected during non-presidential

campaign years.

While there are some scholars accepting that attitudes have an impact on behavior,

cognitive dissonance theory asserts that behavior can, in turn, affect attitudes. The theory

suggests attitudes may be transformed by the simple act of voting (M’Gregor, 2014).

In conclusion, cognitive dissonance theory provides a framework for

understanding how internal consistency drives changes in beliefs and behaviors. In

political contexts, this theory explains how voting behavior can alter attitudes toward

candidates and issues, demonstrating the reciprocal relationship between actions and

beliefs. By acknowledging that voting can modify attitudes, cognitive dissonance theory

offers valuable insights into the dynamics of political behavior and the factors influencing

voter preferences and opinions.

Social Identity Theory

Social Identity Theory is a psychological theory proposed by Henri Tajfel and John

Turner in the 1970s to explain how intergroup behavior can vary depending on perceiver's

identification with group, specifically focusing intention towards self-concept arising from

membership with certain groups and social identity. This theory posits that people define

themselves and others as part of social categories — such as political parties or religious

groups, for example — and derive some sense of identity from their category

memberships. The implications of SIT for political behavior are far-reaching: It suggests

that the electoral choices made by voters generally do not stem from consideration or

commitment, but rather through group identification. More recently, other studies have

indicated that social identity can play a powerful role in how you actually cast your vote.

But if you have an affiliation to a group, then attitudinally/behaviorally one automatic

consequence of that might be your taking on the attitudes and beliefs and practices to

24
some extent or another. This is particularly true of political contexts, where people are

generally pushed to lock in affiliation with one party — which usually tenders us towards

wider social identities (ethnicity/religion or socio-economic class). One important way that

people organize and make sense of politics, according to Social Identity Theory, is in terms

of their social identities; this research has shown that peoples' subjective knowledge social

identity predicts how they vote — often regardless if it seems like economic interests or

personal beliefs might counsel them otherwise (Huddy, 2014).

A deeper look at the Social Identity Theory shows that political campaigns and

messages use social identities to influence voter. Instead, you have politicians and parties

constructing narratives that are based upon group identification through the use of

language and symbol itself. This tactic is used to raise voter turnout, strength partisanship,

increase participation in the political system. For instance, using a meta-analysis of data

Green et al. It has been shown that social‐identity appeals are successful at increasing

turnout among many of the marginal groups, by bolstering group solidarity and political

efficacy (Schuck et al., 2016).

Social Identity Theory also relates to the idea of othering, as high in-group

identification can spark outgroup animosity; fomenting political them vs us mentalities and

impasses. When social identities have greater salience, the scope for compromise and

bipartisan cooperation is reduced or non-existent (Mason, 2018). Consequently, Models

of political behavior in general and models for the rise of populism or hyper-partisanship

among other political trends that have become apparent across democracies all over the

world are largely contingent on how we understand social identity.

In conclusion, social identity theory provides valuable insights into how group

affiliations shape political behavior and attitudes. By highlighting the influence of social

identities on voting patterns and political engagement, it helps explain the dynamics

25
behind electoral choices and political polarization. Recognizing the role of social identity

in political contexts can enhance our understanding of contemporary political trends and

inform strategies for addressing political divisions.

Related Studies

Political Ideologies and Youth Voting Behavior: The Effects of Ideological Beliefs

on Electoral Choices (Parsons, 2019)

Parsons’ (2019) research investigated how political ideologies impact the voting

behavior of young adults. The study explored the influence of various ideological beliefs,

such as progressive, conservative, and moderate views, on young voters' electoral

choices. Through analyzing survey data and political engagement metrics, Parsons

highlighted how ideological beliefs shape political preferences and participation among

younger demographics. The research also examined the role of political education and

socialization in reinforcing ideological beliefs and influencing voting behavior. Parsons

provided a detailed look at how ideological orientations affect young adults' attitudes

towards different political parties and candidates, offering valuable insights into the factors

driving youth electoral decisions.

The researcher also demonstrated that political ideologies significantly influence

young adults' voting behavior. The research found that young voters with strong

ideological beliefs were more likely to vote for candidates and parties that aligned with

their ideological positions.

The study identified that political education and awareness also played a role in

shaping young adults' ideological beliefs and voting behavior. Enhanced political

education was associated with more informed and consistent voting choices among young

voters. Moreover, Parsons observed that young adults' engagement with political issues

and participation in elections were influenced by their ideological beliefs. Those with clear

26
ideological orientations showed higher levels of political involvement and were more likely

to engage in electoral processes.

Regime Support and Ideological Alignments in Young Adult’s Voting Behavior

(Magalhães, 2015)

Magalhães’ (2015) study examines how support for political regimes and

ideological alignments influence the voting behavior of young adults. The research

focuses on how young voters' ideological orientations impact their support for different

political regimes and their electoral choices. By analyzing data from surveys and

interviews, Magalhães identifies key factors that drive regime support among young adults,

including their ideological beliefs and political socialization experiences. The study

provides insights into how ideological alignments shape young voters' perceptions of

political legitimacy and influence their participation in elections. It also explores how

changes in political regimes and ideological shifts affect young adults' voting patterns over

time.

Magalhães’ study found that young adults' support for political regimes was closely

linked to their ideological alignments. Young voters who identified with certain ideologies

were more likely to support regimes that aligned with their ideological beliefs. The study

highlighted how ideological orientations influenced perceptions of political legitimacy and

regime stability.

The study observed that young adults’ voting behavior was significantly affected

by their ideological beliefs. Those with strong ideological orientations were more likely to

participate in elections and show consistent support for parties and candidates that

mirrored their ideological views.

The research also emphasized the role of political socialization in shaping

ideological beliefs and voting patterns among young adults. Educational and social

27
experiences played a crucial role in reinforcing ideological alignments and influencing

voting behavior.

Ideological Considerations and Voting Behavior: A Comparison of Individual and

Aggregate Level Approaches (Bartle, 2016)

The research study of Bartle (2016) showed that ideological considerations matter

for voting but require more nuanced analysis than simple individual-level as against

aggregate – level approaches. Based on their study, looking at each individual voter,

voters with the same ideological preference will generally behave similarly regardless of

that preference.

At the micro-level, Bartle examines how his subjects' general ideological beliefs

function at a more discrete level to influence specific voting decisions and party choice.

This study, at the aggregate level, dealt with how collective ideological trends influence

general election results and party systems. It employed a wide array of methods (surveys,

statistical models) to offer the fullest possible picture of how ideology — ever-omniscient

and pervasive — works its way into thinking about voting behavior at various levels

simultaneously. The study found that the impact of ideological considerations on voting

are substantial even at the individual level—it can predict party identification and candidate

choice. These strong partisans were also much more likely to participate in political life,

voting consistently for their preferred party and engaging with politics through attendance

at various types of meetings. Personal ideology directly affects specific policy preferences

and voting choices with most partisans of these ideas tending to passive vote for parties

or candidates that were compatible with their ideological views.

At the macro-level, general patterns of ideology were related to election results

and party systems in more recent history. The study noted that if the electorate became

more ideologically polarized, as it has in reality to some degree over time then large swings

28
of party support and electoral outcomes could be anticipated. In general, movement in

ideologies involved correlation with party take-over and a change of political wind on the

aggregate scale. Statistical models in the study showed that ideological fit on an aggregate

level is a predictor of variance across election outcomes and voter turnouts.

The Relationship Between Ideology and Voting Behavior: Analyzing the Patterns

and Influences (Davis, 2019)

Davis’ (2019) study provided an extensive analysis of the relationship between

ideological beliefs and voting behavior. The research delved into how specific ideological

orientations—such as liberalism, conservatism, and other political ideologies—affect

voters' choices and political participation. By examining various patterns and influences,

Davis highlighted how ideological beliefs can shape voting preferences and behaviors in

different political contexts. The study used a combination of empirical data, including

survey responses and voting records, to identify key trends and factors that link ideology

with voting behavior. It also explored how external factors, such as political campaigns

and media influences, interact with ideological beliefs to affect voter decisions.

Davis’s study revealed that ideological beliefs significantly impact voting behavior.

Voters with strong ideological orientations were more likely to vote consistently with their

beliefs and exhibit higher levels of political engagement. The study identified clear patterns

linking ideological preferences with party alignment and electoral choices. The

study observed that ideological divides contributed to increasing political polarization.

Voters' choices often reflected deeper ideological divides, leading to more pronounced

party loyalty and less cross-party voting. The research also highlighted the role of external

factors, such as political campaigns and media influences, in shaping the relationship

between ideology and voting behavior. Campaigns that aligned with voters' ideological

29
preferences were found to increase voter turnout and support for specific candidates or

parties.

The Relationship Between Information, Ideology, and Voting Behavior (Poole &

Parlfrey, n.d.)

Poole and Parlfrey’s (n.d.) research study examined how the amount and type of

political information available to individuals affect their voting behavior and how this

interacts with their ideological orientations. The research suggested that ideological

commitment influences how individuals process political information. Those with strong

ideological beliefs are more likely to seek out information that aligns with their views and

to interpret ambiguous information in a way that supports their ideology.

The researchers also suggested that ideology strongly influences voting

preferences. Voters with a clear ideological stance are more consistent in their voting

patterns and more resistant to change in response to new information compared to those

with less defined ideological views.

Additionally, the study underscored that the quality and quantity of information can

reinforce existing ideological beliefs, thereby affecting voting behavior. For instance,

exposure to ideologically congruent information tends to strengthen partisan preferences.

The Electoral Trade-off: How Values and Ideology Affect Party Preference

Formation in Europe (Tsatsanis & Teperoglou, 2014)

Tsatsanis and Teperoglou (2014) wrote a research paper about investigating the

relationship between nationalism, post nationalism, and voting behavior. It explored how

shifting ideologies about national identity influence political preferences and electoral

outcomes. The study distinguished between nationalist and post nationalist ideologies and

examined how these orientations affect voting behavior. Based on the findings, nationalist

30
ideologies often emphasize traditional cultural values and national unity, while post

nationalist perspectives may prioritize global integration and multiculturalism.

Moreover, the research indicated that shifts in the prominence of nationalism and post

nationalism in political discourse can significantly impact voting behavior and electoral

outcomes, with changes in ideological emphasis leading to variations in voter support for

different parties and candidates.

Who Wins Preference Votes? An Analysis of Party Loyalty, Ideology, and

Accountability to Voters (Folke & Rickne, 2020)

A research study conducted by Folke and Rickne (2020) explored the interplay

between political ideology and various aspects of political behavior, including voting. It

provides a detailed analysis of how ideological orientations shape individuals' political

preferences and actions. The study found that individuals with strong ideological

orientations exhibit more consistent political behavior, including voting. Their ideological

beliefs guide their political preferences and decisions.

The researchers also added that ideological beliefs also impact electoral

engagement. Individuals with clear ideological orientations are more likely to participate in

political activities, including voting, compared to those with less defined beliefs. In the

same concept, voters' ideological positions are closely tied to their policy preferences. For

example, conservative voters may support policies favoring traditional values and limited

government intervention, while liberal voters may prefer progressive policies and social

reform.

Elections and Selection: The Role of Political Ideology in Selections Decisions

(Johnson & Roberto, 2019)

Johnson and Roberto’s (2019) research study examined how ideological

orientations affect political attitudes and voting behavior. It focused on how individuals’

31
ideological beliefs shape their political preferences and their responses to political

information.

According to the researchers, ideology strongly correlates with voting preferences.

Individuals are more likely to support candidates and parties that align with their

ideological beliefs. For example, a liberal voter is more inclined to support progressive

candidates, whereas a conservative voter will favor candidates who promote conservative

values. The study found that ideological alignment affects how individuals make electoral

decisions. Ideologically aligned voters are less influenced by candidate-specific traits or

short-term political issues and are more driven by how candidates’ platforms align with

their ideological views.

The Influence of Ideology on Voting Behavior and Political Attitudes (Denver &

Hands, 2015)

Denver and Hands (2015) conducted a research study investigating the role of

political ideology in shaping voting behavior and political attitudes. The researchers

examined how ideological orientations influence voter preferences, decision-making

processes, and the formation of political attitudes.

According to the researchers, political ideology is a strong predictor of voting

behavior. Voters’ choices are heavily influenced by their ideological alignment with political

parties and candidates. Ideological beliefs guide voters in evaluating political options and

making decisions at the ballot box. The study also highlighted that ideological orientation

often correlates with party affiliation. Individuals tend to support parties that align with their

ideological views, leading to consistent voting patterns based on ideological preferences.

Additionally, the researchers expressed that the salience of political issues plays

a role in how ideology affects decision-making. Voters’ decisions can be influenced by the

prominence of issues that align with their ideological beliefs. For instance, economic

32
issues may be more salient for conservative voters, while social justice issues might be

more relevant for liberal voters. Moreover, understanding the influence of ideology on

voting behavior can help political campaigns tailor their strategies to align with the

ideological preferences of target voter groups.

Factors Influencing Voting Decision: A Comprehensive Literature Review (Kulachai

et. al., 2023)

Kulachai et. al. (2023) conducted a research study on the different factors that

affect or influence voting decisions where their study showed that political ideologies is

one of the key factors. These ideologies often align with specific political parties or

movements. Political leanings, whether tilting conservative or liberal, play a substantial

role in guiding electoral choices. These leanings act as a bridge, linking voters to

candidates that reflect their intrinsic values and policy inclinations.

The researcher added that those aligned with conservative values typically

emphasize societal order, the importance of a laissez-faire economic stance, and a strong

national defense, leading them to side with candidates who vocalize these priorities. In

contrast, liberal-minded voters usually champion societal progression, economic

regulation, and a wider embrace of inclusivity, driving their support toward candidates with

these viewpoints (Mason, 2018).

In conclusion, political ideology serves as a significant predictor of voting decisions.

Understanding an individual’s ideological stance provides insights into their policy

preferences and the political parties or candidates they are likely to support.

33
Synthesis

The conceptual literature consistently highlight that political ideologies and

educational backgrounds are central to shaping voting preferences. Political beliefs,

influenced by educational experiences, have a direct impact on voting behavior (Mariani

& Hewitt, 2018; Cox, 2022). Partisan affiliations and socio-economic factors further modify

these preferences, with higher education and socio-economic status generally correlating

with increased political participation (Gsayers, 2009; Doyle & Skinner, 2017; Yoon, 2017;

Chang, 2014; Staples, 2022). Gender differences also play a role in political engagement,

with variations in the extent and nature of participation between men and women

(Bolzendahl & Coffe, 2016; Inglehart & Pippa, 2014). Overall, this conceptual literature

underscores the complex interplay between education, socio-economic status,

partisanship, and gender in determining voting patterns, behaviors, and preferences. The

related studies collectively emphasize the significant influence of political ideologies on

voting behavior, especially among young adults and at varying levels of analysis. Parsons

(2019) and Magalhães (2015) underscore that strong ideological beliefs often drive voting

preferences, with ideological orientations influencing both support for political regimes and

specific electoral choices. Parsons highlights that political education enhances ideological

consistency and engagement, while Magalhães shows that regime support is closely tied

to ideological alignment. Bartle’s (2016) study further illustrates those ideological

considerations impact voting behavior at both the individual and aggregate levels. At the

individual level, ideological beliefs predict party identification and voting patterns, whereas,

at the aggregate level, ideological polarization can lead to significant shifts in party support

and electoral outcomes. Davis (2019) extends these findings by exploring how ideological

beliefs correlate with voting behavior and political engagement, noting that strong

ideological orientations lead to higher political polarization and more consistent party

34
loyalty. Similarly, Poole & Parlfrey’s (n.d.) research demonstrates that ideological

commitment affects how voters process political information and maintain consistent

voting patterns. Tsatsanis & Teperoglou (2014) and Folke & Rickne (2020) highlight the

role of specific ideological orientations, such as nationalism and post-nationalism, in

shaping electoral preferences. Their studies suggest that shifts in ideological discourse

impact voter support for different parties and candidates. Johnson & Roberto (2019) and

Denver & Hands (2015) confirm that ideological alignment strongly influences electoral

decisions, with voters more likely to support candidates and parties that reflect their

ideological views. Lastly, Kulachai et al. (2023) emphasize that political ideologies serve

as a key predictor of voting decisions, guiding voters towards candidates and parties that

align with their intrinsic values. In summary, the studies converge on the idea that

ideological beliefs are a crucial determinant of voting behavior, influencing political

preferences, engagement, and participation across different levels of analysis and among

various demographic groups.

35
 CHAPTER 3

METHODOLOGY

This chapter contains the research design, research respondents, research

instruments, data gathering procedure, statistical data analysis of the research study, and

ethical considerations used in the study.

Research Design

This research study utilizes the descriptive correlational research design, which

aims to utilizes a quantitative survey. Descriptive correlational research is a type of

research design that tries to explain the relationship between two or more variables

without making any claims about cause and effect. It includes collecting and analyzing

data on at least two variables to see if there is a link between them (Bhat, 2023).

As this study aims to determine the relationship of political ideologies and voting

preferences among HUMSS alumni, a descriptive correlational research design is

appropriate for this study since it helps examine the relationship between political

ideologies (the independent variable) and voting preferences (the dependent variable)

without changing or controlling any of the variables. This design is useful seeing that it

looks at natural behaviors, making it a good fit for studying how the political views of

HUMSS alumni affect their voting choices. By using this approach, the study can also look

into whether factors like sex and socioeconomic status influence political ideologies and

voting preferences, which is important since these factors are part of the research

questions.

Additionally, this type of research doesn’t aim to establish cause-and-effect

relationships. Instead, it focuses on understanding the relationship between the variables

36
and how strong or weak that relationship is. This fits the purpose of the study, which is to

explore whether these two aspects are related.

Lastly, a descriptive correlational design allows the researcher to use statistical

data to support or reject the hypotheses. This means the study will provide clear, data-

driven insights into whether political ideologies and voting preferences among HUMSS

alumni are related to sex and socioeconomic status, and whether there are significant

differences based on these factors.

Research Respondents

In order to determine the relationship between political ideologies and voting

preferences among HUMSS alumni, this study will involve respondents from Pototan

National Comprehensive High School.

This research will involve HUMSS alumni from Pototan National Comprehensive

High School who meet the following criteria: 1) They should have completed their studies

under the HUMSS strand, and 2) they should be alumni from the school years 2021-2022,

2022-2023, or 2023-2024. A purposive sampling technique will be utilized to achieve

exactly 70 respondents following the said criteria, as it allows the researchers to focus on

alumni who are accessible and ensures that only those who have been exposed to this

curriculum are included, making the findings more relevant and meaningful.

A survey will be administered online via Google Forms, as it will be disseminated

to the selected respondents through their email addresses or other contact methods

provided by the school. Additionally, informed consent will be obtained from all the

respondents prior to their participation in the study.

Data Gathering Instrument

To collect data for this study, the researchers will utilize a structured questionnaire

to measure political ideologies and preferences in voting of HUMSS alumni. The

37
questionnaire will consist of 15 items that will utilize the 5-Point Likert Scale to determining

the extent of agreement with various political ideology statements and specific questions

regarding political preferences, including party affiliation, voting behavior, and candidate

preferences. The survey will be administered online via Google Forms. This instrument

will be validated by experts in the field, specifically teachers from Pototan National

Comprehensive High School.

The research instrument will have 3 parts, namely; (1) the demographic profile,

which includes the name of the respondents (optional), their sex, and their socio-economic

status (based on monthly family income), (2) the ideologies in politics of the respondents,

which will consist of survey questions that will determine their political ideologies, and (3)

their preferences in voting, which will consist their political actions and preferences.

Responses will be based on the answers of the respondents by selecting the number that

corresponds to the option that best represent their level of agreement in which it will be

Strongly Agree (5), Agree (4), Neutral (3), Disagree (2), Strongly Disagree (1).

Table 3.1. Interpretation for the Political Ideologies of HUMSS Alumni with
corresponding numerical value.
Interpretation Value
Strongly Agree 5
Agree 4
Neutral 3
Disagree 2
Strongly Disagree 1

Table 3.2. Interpretation for the Voting Preferences of HUMSS Alumni with
corresponding numerical value.
Interpretation Value
Strongly Agree 5
Agree 4
Neutral 3
Disagree 2
Strongly Disagree 1

38
Data Gathering Procedure

Before the gathering of the date needed for this research, a request letter to

conduct the study will be submitted to the principal as well the respondents. On the same

thought, the respondents will be given consent forms, confirming that they are taking part

in this study with the researchers following the ethical rules of research such as a strong

sense of confidentiality for the respondents a social and legal respect. After obtaining the

permit letter from the principal and the respondents as well as the consent forms, the

researchers will begin to gather data needed.

The researchers will conduct the data gathering via Google forms as a survey

questionnaire, which includes a questionnaire-checklist containing the ideologies in

politics and preferences in voting, will be disseminated to the respondents through their

emails or other contact information that the school will provide. The respondents will be

given enough time to answer the Google Form.

Statistical Data Analysis

The data will be obtained from this study will be subjected to the following

descriptive, inferential, and correlational statistical treatments:

Mean. Helps summarize the central tendency of the data, providing a general

overview of the respondents' political ideologies and voting preferences.

Kruskal-Wallis H-test. Will be used to compare the political ideologies and voting

preferences of the HUMSS alumni across different groups, such as sex or socioeconomic

status.

Spearman Rank Correlation (Spearman Rho). Can be used to determine if there

is a significant relationship between political ideologies and voting preferences among

HUMSS alumni. The researchers can correlate scores from political ideology statements

39
with scores from voting preference statements to see if alumni who strongly agree with

certain ideologies are more likely to exhibit specific voting behaviors.

MS Excel. Is a versatile tool for data entry, organization and will be used to encode

the gathered data from the survey that will be conducted.

All statistical computations will be done with the use of the Statistical Package

for Social Sciences (SPSS) with a level of significance set at 0.05 alpha level.

40