Attitudes Toward War Can Be Predicted by Psychologists

Psychology Today

by Raj Persaud MD FRCPsych

March 1, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

A recent study from the U.K. reveals that personality traits and early-life experiences significantly influence whether individuals support war. The research, titled "Authoritarianism and the Psychology of War: Exploring Personality Traits in the Legitimation of Military Conflict," analyzed data from over 1,000 participants and found strong correlations between psychological factors like social dominance orientation (SDO) and authoritarian submission, and attitudes toward warfare. Men, older adults, and those with right-leaning political views were more likely to support war, aligning with previous research. The study also uncovered a link between childhood maltreatment and pro-war attitudes, suggesting that early-life adversity may shape adult aggression. One key factor identified was "social dominance orientation," which reflects a preference for hierarchical and unequal societies. Individuals scoring high on SDO are more likely to endorse militaristic views, believing in the necessity of war to maintain order. Conversely, those with low SDO tend to favor egalitarian ideologies, viewing war as unnecessary and harmful. This aligns with psychological theories that emphasize how personality traits influence political and social attitudes. Another significant finding was the role of "authoritarian submission," defined by deference to authority and hostility toward dissenters. People high in authoritarian submission are more likely to support aggressive state policies, including warfare, as they view authority figures as infallible and believe in maintaining societal order through force. This mindset often leads to harsher stances toward those who challenge the status quo. The study's implications for health are profound, particularly in understanding how mental health struggles and early-life trauma can shape harmful ideologies. By identifying these psychological factors, researchers may develop interventions to address pro-war attitudes, fostering empathy and reducing aggression. The findings also highlight the importance of addressing childhood adversity and promoting心理健康教育 to mitigate the impact of such experiences on adult behavior. Overall, this research underscores the complex interplay between psychology, politics, and societal norms in shaping attitudes toward war, offering valuable insights for mental health professionals, policymakers, and educators alike.

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Originally published on Psychology Today on 3/1/2026