"Political alienation" refers to a feeling of disconnection from political processes and institutions, where individuals feel they have little to no influence over decisions affecting their lives. This phenomenon may arise from perceptions of corruption, inefficacy, or lack of representation from governing bodies. When citizens lose trust in their government or believe it does not represent their interests, they may withdraw from participation in civic life. This sense of alienation can lead to lower voter turnout and decreased engagement in social movements, ultimately undermining the democratic process.