Are People Who Believe in Conspiracy Theories Delusional?
Whos Vulnerable to Conspiratorial Beliefs?
Shadowlandemphasizes that anyone could fall into conspiratorial thinking, and to a certain degree that comes off as true.
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Meanwhile, Clinical PsychologistDavid Tzall.
Situational Factors
One of the things that drive belief in conspiracy theories of all kinds isfearand anxiety.
Conspiracy theories may be one way avenue for doing so.
These things prime people for conspiratorial beliefs.
Thats not to say just anybody whos [feeling] disenfranchised will feel that way, Frost observes.
This is just one case where someone’s situation led to belief in conspiracy theories.
However, as Frost notes, “conspiracy theories never used to have a very big bullhorn.
For people who believe in conspiracy theories, the internet is likely to offer evidence to support the conspiracy.
Are There Mental Health Consequences to Believing in Conspiracy Theories?
Plus, its exciting to feel in the know and like youre helping to solve important problems.
Instead of a growth mindset, your mindset becomes more divisive.
It’s us versus them, zero-sum game.
You do have an externallocus of controlwhere you are letting other people dictate what’s happening with the world.
This could lead people to feel isolated, disenfranchised, and disempowered.
Can Loved Ones Help People Who Believe in Conspiracy Theories?
Frost says he largely agrees with this observation.
So is there anything people can do to help family members or loved ones who believe in conspiratorial theories?
Thats because confronting their loved ones about their beliefs wont help.