Reports Outline Psychology and Psychiatry Study Results from University of Helsinki (National bitterness, powerlessness and greatness: Examining constructions of affect as part of argumentation in populist EU discourse in Finland).

The article discusses research from the University of Helsinki that examines the interplay between affect and discourse in populist argumentation regarding the European Union (EU) in Finland. The study, which involved qualitative interviews with 31 voters, identifies three key affective-discursive practices: bitterness towards perceived undeserving others, national uncertainty that mitigates EU criticism, and national pride that devalues the EU. The research highlights the importance of understanding the emotional dimensions of political argumentation, particularly in the context of Euroscepticism and right-wing populism. The findings contribute to social psychological research by illustrating how national identity and historical context shape affective responses to EU-related issues. [Extracted from the article]