Conspiracy Theories

Exposure to conspiracy theories heightens paranoid thoughts, as found in a study using longitudinal and experimental methods, revealing that negative emotions play a key role in this relationship and highlighting the mental health risks of conspiracy beliefs.

Stressful childhoods and Dark Triad traits are linked to conspiracy beliefs, suggesting these mindsets might be adaptive responses shaped by early life adversity, according to new research.

New research shows that higher scientific literacy, encompassing knowledge and reasoning, reduces belief in conspiracy theories by improving evidence evaluation.

A study found that individuals with low political knowledge are more likely to endorse climate change conspiracies, driven in part by national narcissism. Political education could reduce these beliefs by fostering a better understanding of democratic processes.

Individuals who struggle to distinguish between negative emotions and engage in rumination are more likely to believe in conspiracy theories. Improving emotional granularity may help manage emotions better and reduce susceptibility to these beliefs.

While conspiracy mentality is linked to the perceived plausibility of both plausible and implausible conspiracy theories, it is much stronger for implausible ones, and higher cognitive skills correlate with skepticism towards implausible theories but not plausible ones.

A recent study examined how QAnon beliefs lead to significant relationship breakdowns. Followers become increasingly intolerant and defensive, creating conflicts, reduced communication, and emotional distance. Despite efforts to heal, many relationships deteriorate due to the followers' entrenched beliefs.

Existential isolation and alienation significantly predict conspiracy beliefs, whereas loneliness does not. These findings suggest that specific types of interpersonal isolation, not merely loneliness, influence the inclination towards conspiratorial thinking.

A recent UK study found a strong correlation between conspiracy beliefs and antisemitism. Beliefs about personal well-being and government malfeasance were notably linked to antisemitic attitudes towards Jews and the State of Israel, respectively, with global conspiracies correlating with generalized...

While conspiracy theories can increase hesitancy, there is stronger evidence that initial vaccine hesitancy often leads to the adoption of conspiracy beliefs, suggesting a dynamic rationalization process over time.

New research suggests that radicalization is driven more by emotional pathways than mere misinformation. Analyzing accounts from former radicals, the study identifies stages of radicalization and emphasizes early, empathetic interventions over traditional fact-checking to prevent extreme actions.

Recent research has shown that individuals with high levels of hostile sexism are more likely to accept rape myths, especially after exposure to feminist conspiracy theories. This highlights how sexist attitudes and conspiracy beliefs intertwine to influence perceptions of sexual...

New research reveals that individuals with a strong sense of entitlement were more likely to ignore COVID-19 safety measures, visiting non-essential venues and endorsing conspiracy theories. This behavior highlights the complex interplay between psychological traits and public health responses.

The journal Frontiers in Psychology has recently published a study showing a significant link between religiosity and the belief in COVID-19 conspiracy narratives — mediated by a conspiracy mentality.

A recent study led by researchers from the University of Tokyo has shed light on the intricate web of factors contributing to vaccine hesitancy and resistance. The study identifies online political engagement, conspiracy theories, and spirituality as significant influences shaping...