Affective polarization is a term used to describe the increasing divergence and hostility between individuals or groups based on their emotional responses to political or social issues. This concept refers to the growing tendency for individuals to form strong emotional attachments to their political or social beliefs, leading to heightened levels of antagonism towards those who hold opposing views. Affective polarization can contribute to a lack of civility in political discourse, making it difficult for individuals to engage in constructive dialogue or compromise. Researchers study affective polarization to better understand the causes and consequences of this phenomenon, as well as to identify potential strategies for mitigating its negative effects on society.