2025 Insights: The Psychology Behind Conspiracy Theories and Their Impact

Periods of uncertainty often serve as fertile ground for the spread of misinformation.

Lately, it may feel like conspiracy theories are everywhere — from COVID-19 misinformation to claims of election fraud. These narratives permeate social media, news outlets, and even personal conversations with friends and family.

For instance, a May 2020 survey of 2,501 adults in England revealed that 25% believed in unproven COVID-19 conspiracies. Similarly, a January 2021 poll among 1,239 U.S. voters showed that 77% of Republican respondents thought widespread election fraud occurred, despite court rulings to the contrary.

However, conspiracy theories are not new phenomena. Decades after President John F. Kennedy’s assassination, a 2003 ABC News poll found that 70% of Americans still suspected a larger plot beyond the convicted assassin. Likewise, theories doubting the 1969 moon landing emerged shortly after the event.

Recent events, such as the January 6 Capitol riot, highlight that conspiracy theories can have severe, even deadly, consequences. This insurrection resulted in five deaths, including a police officer.

Experts emphasize the importance of understanding why people gravitate toward conspiracy theories, especially during turbulent times. John Cook, PhD, founder of Skeptical Science and co-author of “The Conspiracy Theory Handbook,” explains, “When individuals feel threatened and powerless, they naturally seek control and order by turning to conspiracy theories.”

While it’s crucial to hold accountable those who act unlawfully based on conspiracies, recognizing the underlying psychological drivers can foster more meaningful conversations and protect our mental well-being.

Why Do People Believe Conspiracy Theories?

Research identifies several factors that increase susceptibility to conspiracy beliefs. Here are key insights backed by data and expert analysis.

Perceived Personal Benefits

Sometimes, people want a conspiracy theory to be true because it aligns with their desires or worldview. A 2017 review found that believers often perceive social and existential benefits from these narratives.

For example, individuals may support a political candidate they believe will safeguard their interests or reject climate change facts due to economic ties to fossil fuels. Clinical psychologist Carla Marie Manly, PhD, notes, “People often embrace theories because they resonate with their cause, even when their rational mind doubts it.”

Moreover, identifying with like-minded groups creates a sense of belonging, fulfilling a basic human need for social connection. This “in-group” mentality provides comfort and reinforces belief systems.

However, such beliefs can backfire socially and personally, as seen in widespread condemnation of Capitol rioters across political lines. Despite this, some hold onto their views out of pride or fear of admitting error.

The Desire to Feel Intelligent and Unique

Believing in secret or scarce information can boost feelings of uniqueness and superiority. A 2017 study highlighted that conspiracy believers often crave this sense of being “in the know.”

Manly explains, “This learned behavior makes individuals feel elevated above others, reinforcing their attachment to such beliefs.”

Education plays a complex role; lower education levels correlate with higher conspiracy belief, possibly due to less critical thinking training. Conversely, highly educated individuals can also cling to conspiracies, sometimes more stubbornly, as ideology and identity often override knowledge.

John Cook adds, “Increased education can equip people with better skills to deny opposing facts more convincingly.”

Divergent Moral Perspectives

People’s moral values influence their acceptance of facts. Some view public health measures and environmental protections as moral duties, while others prioritize individual freedoms, leading to skepticism toward collective actions.

A 2020 Romanian study found that conspiracy beliefs about COVID-19 distancing correlated with moral disengagement and intolerance of uncertainty. Cook notes that strong individualism predicts resistance to pandemic precautions and climate change acceptance.

Approaching these differences with empathy—such as expressing personal feelings and requesting cooperation without confrontation—can encourage openness without triggering defensiveness.

Strategies for Addressing Conspiracy Theories

In today’s connected world, encountering conspiracy beliefs among acquaintances or loved ones is common. Before engaging, consider your goals and potential outcomes.

Clinical psychologist Carla Marie Manly advises evaluating the purpose of the conversation: “What do you hope to gain?”

If you choose to engage, tailor your approach based on your relationship and maintain realistic expectations, as changing deeply held beliefs is challenging.

John Cook highlights that conspiracy believers often distrust mainstream information, interpreting contradictory evidence as part of the conspiracy, making dialogue difficult.

Engaging Family and Close Friends

Leverage established trust by expressing concern gently and offering credible information without judgment. Manly suggests phrases like, “I’m worried about this because... Would you be interested if I shared some research? We can talk or you can just consider it.”

This non-confrontational style keeps communication open and respects the other person’s autonomy.

Interacting on Social Media

Public online debates often escalate tensions. Manly recommends brief, polite responses such as, “Thank you for sharing. I see it differently because...” and then leaving it at that to avoid conflict and public embarrassment.

Setting Boundaries and When to Disengage

Protecting your mental health is paramount. If conspiracy beliefs cause distress or harm, it’s appropriate to set limits or disengage. Manly advises stating, “I’m uncomfortable discussing this topic; can we focus on something else?”

If boundaries are repeatedly crossed, you may choose to distance yourself entirely, prioritizing your well-being.

Conclusion

Conspiracy theories have long existed but thrive especially during uncertain times like today. People’s motivations include perceived benefits, pride, the desire for uniqueness, and differing moral values.

Engaging thoughtfully and setting healthy boundaries can help navigate these complex beliefs. Ultimately, safeguarding mental health and fostering respectful dialogue remain essential.

Beth Ann Mayer is a New York-based writer who enjoys marathon training and spending time with her son and pets.

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