Political Participation: Theoretical and Methodological Analysis of the Main Approaches to Its Consideration

Amid growing political fragmentation and the digitalization of political processes, the comprehensive analysis of political participation is becoming increasingly relevant. Traditional forms of civic engagement are losing their effectiveness, giving way to new practices – ranging from online petitions to digital platforms for civic activism. This study presents a theoretical and methodological review of six key approaches to analyzing political participation: institutional, behavioral, rational choice, network, sociocultural, and psychological. Each approach highlights distinct dimensions of political behavior, from structural conditions to internal motivations. Particular at-tention is paid to the need for interdisciplinary synthesis, allowing for a more complete understanding of the factors stimulating or, conversely, inhibiting citizen participation. In the context of digital transformation and declining trust in institutions, this research emphasizes the importance of enhancing governmental legitimacy and developing effective strategies for civic mobilization, taking into account new forms and channels of participation.