The paradox of presence? Testing the negative role model effect of harassment towards MPs on their staffers' political careers

Political role models are widely seen as inspiring underrepresented groups to engage in politics and pursue political careers. While role models may have a positive effect on average citizens for example by enhancing political efficacy and engagement, they may also influence those already within the political sphere by shaping their professional ambitions (Sweet-Cushman, 2023). In this study, we explore a potential reversal of this effect: when role models experience harassment, their example may discourage rather than inspire. We theorize a negative role model effect, arguing that witnessing harassment towards politicians can deter political ambition, particularly among women. To test our hypotheses, we focus on MPs staffers, a crucial yet understudied group. Staffers are not only likely future politicians (Ohmura & Bailer, 2023), but are also closely involved in MPs’ daily work, and thus often the first to encounter and even handle the harassment. Drawing on original survey data collected among personal staff of MPs in Germany, the UK and Austria (N= 1007), our findings show that most staffers witness harassment targeting their MPs and report deterrence from political life due to this witnessing. Moreover, women, and particularly those working for women MPs, report higher levels of deterrence. Overall, our results show a gendered negative role model effect, driven by harassment against politicians. These findings highlighting how harassment not only harms its direct victims but also undermines the political careers of witnesses.