Author(s) :

Edward Lee.

Volume/Issue :

Abstract :

This study examines the factors that influence public attitudes in the United States toward refugees, focusing on political orientation, past acceptance, and perceived threats. Understanding these dynamics is essential because public opinion shapes not only immigration and resettlement policy but also the social context in which refugees are received. Data were collected through questionnaires from 106 U.S. residents, measuring demographic traits, political ideology, local histories of refugee acceptance, perceived threats (economic, cultural, security, and infrastructure), and attitudinal support for refugees. Multiple regression analyses (R² = 0.593) revealed that security-related concerns (b = -0.53, p < 0.001) and public service strain (b = -0.33, p < 0.01) were the significant negative predictors of refugee support, while historical acceptance (b = 0.44, p < 0.001) predicted more positive attitudes. Political conservatism also significantly predicted negative attitudes. These results indicate that safety and infrastructure concerns outweigh economic or cultural fears and that communities with past refugee resettlement display greater local support. The findings offer both scholarly and policy relevance, providing a foundation for targeted strategies that address key public concerns while strengthening community-based acceptance of refugees.