Factors Affecting Voters’ Voting Behavior: A Literature Review

This study presents a literature review on the factors that determine voters' voting behavior. The factors affecting voter decisions are discussed under three main headings: (1) voter-related factors, (2) candidate-related factors and (3) party-related factors. Voter-related factors include age, gender, education level, occupation, financial status, identity (ethnic, religious, political and social), level of voter participation, and level of political interest and knowledge. Candidate-related factors include the candidate's personal characteristics, the organizations he/she is a member of and his/her election promises. Party-related factors are examined through the party’s program, its position in politics, its establishment date and temporal development. The factors listed are selected among the most discussed factors in the literature and each factor is analyzed in depth and supported by academic studies. The aim of this study is to bring together the factors affecting voting behavior of voters and to make sense of voter behavior. Voters' participation in voting changes national and international balances. Therefore, by identifying the factors that influence voters in the voting process and internalizing these factors, it is aimed to achieve a better position socially, politically and socially through voters, candidates and party members. The result of the study shows that the dynamics determining voter preferences are multidimensional and contextual. Therefore, discussing voter preferences based on a single factor may not yield rational results. This study is expected to provide guidance for political scientists, policy makers and electoral strategists but since each society has its own characteristics, it should be well analyzed which factors are more effective in voter behavior.