What term describes the citizens' belief in their ability to influence political decisions through participation?

• A. Political Efficacy
• B. Ideology
• C. Party Identification
• D. Platform

Answer: (A)

Political efficacy is the belief that ordinary citizens can influence political decisions through their participation. It captures the sense that one's actions—voting, joining groups, contacting officials, or engaging in civic life—can make a difference in how government operates. This distinguishes it from related ideas: ideology is a coherent set of political beliefs; party identification is loyalty to a political party; a platform is a party’s official policy agenda. The term here specifically describes the feeling of personal effectiveness in shaping political outcomes.