How can opinion polls influence voter turnout?

Opinion polls can significantly influence voter turnout by shaping how individuals perceive the electoral landscape and motivating them to participate in the voting process. When polls indicate strong support for a candidate or cause, voters may feel encouraged to cast their ballots in alignment with the perceived prevailing opinion. This sense of alignment can energize potential voters, making them more likely to engage in the electoral process.

Additionally, when polls show that a particular candidate is trailing or that a measure is unpopular, it can also drive supporters of the less favored option to mobilize and vote to counter the trend demonstrated in the polls. This dynamic stimulates voter engagement by providing insight into the motivations and intentions of others, creating a sense of urgency and a desire to be part of influencing the outcome.

The influence of polls on voter behavior ties into the broader concept of "bandwagon" effects, where individuals may want to support a candidate they perceive as likely to win, further fostering higher turnout rates among supporters. This interactive relationship underscores the power of public opinion as reflected in polls to move and motivate voters.