Bridging Borders and Beliefs: Exploring the Association Between Christian Nationalism, Social Connectedness, and Anti-Immigrant Sentiments in the Online World

Christian nationalism, an ideology advocating a fusion of American civic life with a specific form of Christianity, has drawn significant attention in recent years due to its sociopolitical attitudes. However, little research exists on the social factors shaping these opinions. Using Baylor Religion Survey Wave V (2017) data, I explore the connection between Christian nationalism and anti-immigrant sentiments, as well as the potential mediating roles of an individual's social relationships and internet use. Utilizing Hayes's PROCESS model (2018), this thesis investigates whether social connectedness and internet usage mediate the link between Christian nationalism and anti-immigrant sentiments. In results presented through a series of ordinary least squares (OLS) path analyses, social connectedness mediates this association, particularly among Christian nationalists over forty and no mediation is observed in the relationship between Christian nationalism, anti-immigrant sentiments, and internet usage. Future research should delve into generational differences and communication channels in shaping sociopolitical attitudes among Christian nationalists.