New Research Challenges the Idea of a ‘Vicious Cycle’
New research explores the link between psychological distress and conspiracy beliefs, finding limited evidence to support the idea that distress makes people more likely to believe in conspiracy theories.
A significant amount of research has been dedicated to understanding what drives people to believe in conspiracies and how they can stop believing in them. The Watergate scandal is a notable example that led to the resignation of US President Richard Nixon.
The questioning of authority and the official narrative is something that should be encouraged.
However, some people believe in conspiracy theories that are contrary to evidence. Recent research found that 8.9% of New Zealand participants and 10% of other participants believed in such theories.
The team's findings challenge the notion of a ‘vicious cycle’ between psychological distress and conspiracy beliefs, suggesting that the relationship between the two may be more complex than previously thought.
Author's summary: Research challenges the link between distress and conspiracy beliefs.
- New research explores the relationship between psychological distress and conspiracy beliefs.
- Limited evidence was found to support the idea that distress makes people more likely to believe in conspiracy theories.
- The Watergate scandal is an example of a conspiracy that led to significant consequences.