From Brexit to Biden: What Responses to National Outcomes Tell Us About the Nature of Relief

Recent claims contrast relief experienced because a period of unpleasant uncertainty has ended and an outcome materialized (temporal relief)—regardless whether it is one’s preferred outcome—with particular occurred, when the alternative was unpalatable (counterfactual relief). Two studies ( N = 993), one run day after United Kingdom left European Union Joe Biden’s inauguration, confirmed these claims. “Leavers” Biden voters high levels relief, less regret disappointment than “Remainers” Trump voters. showed effect precursor, experiencing little about that had occurred but stronger decision been implemented. Only who believed election over this precursor effect. Results suggest at least two different triggering conditions for indicate role anticipated in voting behavior.