Political participation in authoritarian regimes is typically restricted, with limited opportunities for citizens to express dissent or engage in governance. Participation may occur through state-sanctioned channels that lack genuine democratic processes. In contrast, democracies encourage broader public involvement, allowing citizens to vote, protest, and influence policy. This difference leads to varying levels of political efficacy; individuals in democracies often feel their participation matters, whereas those in authoritarian systems may be disillusioned and disengaged due to repression and fear of consequences.