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Reed JC. They Will Surveil You to Death: Gangstalking as a Cultural Concept of Distress. Cult Med Psychiatry 2024:10.1007/s11013-024-09881-5. [PMID: 39365495 DOI: 10.1007/s11013-024-09881-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/13/2024] [Indexed: 10/05/2024]
Abstract
Understanding local worldviews is a challenge during clinical encounters, especially when they involve cultural references without acceptance from the medical community. Gangstalking is a Western cultural notion which refers to systematic harassment, surveillance, and torture from unseen or covert assailants or networks. It is not a 'real phenomenon' compared with genuine stalking, but experients report worse depression, post-traumatic symptoms, suicidal ideation, and longer lasting encounters. They report physical pain and impossible feats of espionage technologically orchestrated by unknown malevolent actors. Using conversational data from targeted individual podcasts, I explore gangstalking as a cultural concept of distress (CCD) by highlighting associated explanations, idioms, and symptoms. Clinically, gangstalking is likely diagnosed as paranoid schizophrenia. However, its association with frightening events parallels Susto and Nervios. Physical symptoms parallel Open Mole and Brain Fag Syndrome. Like many CCDs, gangstalking is a multi-dimensional phenomenon not neatly mapped onto psychiatric categories. Misinterpreting gangstalking cases as unique or isolated is a likely outcome even when they fit within a well-known Western subculture and techno-science belief system. Moving past prior, outdated notions of folk illnesses and culture-bound syndromes, gangstalking as a CCD helps end the assumption that only the other has exotic or non-psychiatric categories of distress.
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2
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Taubert F, Schmid P, Holford D, Verger P, Fasce A, Karlsson LC, Soveri A, Lewandowsky S, Betsch C. Association of the belief in conspiracy narratives with vaccination status and recommendation behaviours of German physicians. Vaccine X 2024; 20:100560. [PMID: 39444597 PMCID: PMC11497475 DOI: 10.1016/j.jvacx.2024.100560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2024] [Accepted: 09/18/2024] [Indexed: 10/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Vaccine hesitancy has been identified as one of the top ten threats to global health by the World Health Organization (WHO). The belief in conspiracy narratives is repeatedly discussed as a major driver of vaccine hesitancy among the general population. However, there is a lack of research investigating the role of the belief in conspiracy narratives in vaccination decisions and recommendation behaviours of physicians. This is particularly relevant as physicians are one of the major and trusted sources of information for patients' vaccination decisions. This study therefore investigated the association between believing in COVID-19-related conspiracy narratives and physicians' own COVID-19 vaccination status and their recommendation behavior for COVID-19 and other vaccines (e.g., HPV or flu). In a cross-sectional survey among German physicians (N = 602, April 2022) two conspiracy narratives were assessed, stating that the coronavirus is a hoax or that it is human-made. Additional control variables included trust in health institutions, the rejection of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), the 5C psychological antecedents of vaccination (confidence, complacency, constraints, calculation, and collective responsibility) and demographic variables. Hierarchical regressions indicated that greater belief in the conspiracy narrative claiming that the coronavirus is a hoax was associated with lower COVID-19 vaccination uptake and fewer COVID-19 vaccination recommendations among physicians. The results for recommendation behavior remain robust even when controlling for other variables. Contrary to our assumption, believing that the coronavirus is human-made was not related to vaccination status nor vaccine recommendation behavior. In conclusion, believing in conspiracy narratives that question the existence and thus also the danger of the virus is an important independent predictor of vaccine hesitancy among physicians that should be addressed in future public health interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frederike Taubert
- Institute for Planetary Health Behavior, Health Communication, University of Erfurt, Nordhäuser Straße 63, 99089 Erfurt, Germany
- Implementation Research, Health Communication Working Group, Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, University of Hamburg, Bernhard-Nocht-Straße 74, 20359 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Philipp Schmid
- Institute for Planetary Health Behavior, Health Communication, University of Erfurt, Nordhäuser Straße 63, 99089 Erfurt, Germany
- Implementation Research, Health Communication Working Group, Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, University of Hamburg, Bernhard-Nocht-Straße 74, 20359 Hamburg, Germany
- Centre for Language Studies, Radboud University Nijmegen, Erasmusplein 1, 6500 HD Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Dawn Holford
- School of Psychological Science, University of Bristol, 12A Priory Road, Bristol BS8 1TU, United Kingdom
| | - Pierre Verger
- Southeastern France Health Regional Observatory (ORS PACA), Faculty of Medicine, 2 Place Le Verrier, 13004 Marseille, France
| | - Angelo Fasce
- Southeastern Health Regional Observatory (ORS PACA), 13004 Marseille, France
| | - Linda C. Karlsson
- Department of Psychology and Speech-Language Pathology, University of Turku, 20014 Turku, Finland
- Department of Psychology, Åbo Akademi University, Tehtaankatu 2, 20500 Turku, Finland
| | - Anna Soveri
- Department of Psychology, Åbo Akademi University, Tehtaankatu 2, 20500 Turku, Finland
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Turku, 20014 Turku, Finland
| | - Stephan Lewandowsky
- School of Psychological Science, University of Bristol, 12A Priory Road, Bristol BS8 1TU, United Kingdom
- School of Psychological Science, University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Hwy, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia
- Department of Psychology, University of Potsdam, Am Neuen Palais 10, 14469 Potsdam, Germany
| | - Cornelia Betsch
- Institute for Planetary Health Behavior, Health Communication, University of Erfurt, Nordhäuser Straße 63, 99089 Erfurt, Germany
- Implementation Research, Health Communication Working Group, Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, University of Hamburg, Bernhard-Nocht-Straße 74, 20359 Hamburg, Germany
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3
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Van de Cruys S, Bervoets J, Gadsby S, Gijbels D, Poels K. Insight in the Conspiracist's Mind. PERSONALITY AND SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY REVIEW 2024; 28:302-324. [PMID: 37776304 DOI: 10.1177/10888683231203145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/02/2023]
Abstract
Academic AbstractThe motto of the conspiracist, "Do your own research," may seem ludicrous to scientists. Indeed, it is often dismissed as a mere rhetorical device that conspiracists use to give themselves the semblance of science. In this perspective paper, we explore the information-seeking activities ("research") that conspiracists do engage in. Drawing on the experimental psychology of aha experiences, we explain how these activities, as well as the epistemic experiences that precede (curiosity) or follow (insight or "aha" experiences) them, may play a crucial role in the appeal and development of conspiracy beliefs. Aha moments have properties that can be exploited by conspiracy theories, such as the potential for false but seemingly grounded conclusions. Finally, we hypothesize that the need for autonomous epistemic agency and discovery is universal but increases as people experience more uncertainty and/or feel epistemically excluded in society, hence linking it to existing literature on explaining conspiracy theories.
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Di Ciaccio M, Boulahdour N, Tadjeddine A, Brouk N, Ouchallal R, Hami N, Bourhaba O, Adami E, Lorente N, Delabre RM, Karkouri M, Rojas Castro D. Psychosocial experience of the Covid-19 crisis among people who use or inject drugs in Algeria: A community-based qualitative study. J Health Psychol 2024:13591053241259251. [PMID: 39045700 DOI: 10.1177/13591053241259251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 crisis had a global impact and many marginalised groups, such as people who use or inject drugs, are more vulnerable to the SARS-CoV-2 virus and its consequences due to their pre-existing health inequalities. Moreover, people who use/inject drugs are also criminalised in some countries such as Algeria. This analysis aimed to explore the psychosocial experience of the COVID-19 crisis among people who use/inject drugs in Algeria. Twenty-nine qualitative interviews were conducted in 2021 with a community-based approach. Results of the thematic content analysis showed the intersectional effects of the COVID-19 crisis among people who use or inject drugs through the experience of a double crisis: one related to COVID-19 and the second to their specific difficulties related to drug use. Addressing social inequalities in health of people who use or inject drugs, through better recognition of their rights and needs, is crucial to improving their health.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Nafaa Brouk
- Association de Protection Contre le Sida (APCS), Oran, Algeria
- Unité de dépistage du cancer du sein, EPSP, Alger, Algeria
| | - Rachida Ouchallal
- Association de Protection Contre le Sida (APCS), Oran, Algeria
- EHS Frantz-Fanon, Blida, Algeria
| | - Noria Hami
- Association de Protection Contre le Sida (APCS), Oran, Algeria
- Etablissement Hospitalier Pédiatrique, Oran, Algeria
| | - Othmane Bourhaba
- Association de Lutte Contre le Sida (ALCS), Casablanca, Morocco
- Community-based research laboratory, Coalition PLUS, Dakar, Senegal
| | - Elisa Adami
- Community-based research laboratory, Pantin, France
| | - Nicolas Lorente
- Community-based research laboratory, Pantin, France
- Centre d'Estudis Epidemiològics sobre les Infeccions de Transmissió Sexual i Sida de Catalunya (CEEISCAT), Departament de Salut, Generalitat de Catalunya, Badalona, España
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Madrid, España
| | | | - Mehdi Karkouri
- Association de Lutte Contre le Sida (ALCS), Casablanca, Morocco
- Community-based research laboratory, Coalition PLUS, Dakar, Senegal
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire, Casablanca, Morocco
| | - Daniela Rojas Castro
- Community-based research laboratory, Pantin, France
- Aix Marseille Univ, Inserm, IRD, SESSTIM, Sciences Economiques & Sociales de la Santé & Traitement de l'Information Médicale, ISSPAM, Marseille, France
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5
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Capraro V, Lentsch A, Acemoglu D, Akgun S, Akhmedova A, Bilancini E, Bonnefon JF, Brañas-Garza P, Butera L, Douglas KM, Everett JAC, Gigerenzer G, Greenhow C, Hashimoto DA, Holt-Lunstad J, Jetten J, Johnson S, Kunz WH, Longoni C, Lunn P, Natale S, Paluch S, Rahwan I, Selwyn N, Singh V, Suri S, Sutcliffe J, Tomlinson J, van der Linden S, Van Lange PAM, Wall F, Van Bavel JJ, Viale R. The impact of generative artificial intelligence on socioeconomic inequalities and policy making. PNAS NEXUS 2024; 3:pgae191. [PMID: 38864006 PMCID: PMC11165650 DOI: 10.1093/pnasnexus/pgae191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024]
Abstract
Generative artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to both exacerbate and ameliorate existing socioeconomic inequalities. In this article, we provide a state-of-the-art interdisciplinary overview of the potential impacts of generative AI on (mis)information and three information-intensive domains: work, education, and healthcare. Our goal is to highlight how generative AI could worsen existing inequalities while illuminating how AI may help mitigate pervasive social problems. In the information domain, generative AI can democratize content creation and access but may dramatically expand the production and proliferation of misinformation. In the workplace, it can boost productivity and create new jobs, but the benefits will likely be distributed unevenly. In education, it offers personalized learning, but may widen the digital divide. In healthcare, it might improve diagnostics and accessibility, but could deepen pre-existing inequalities. In each section, we cover a specific topic, evaluate existing research, identify critical gaps, and recommend research directions, including explicit trade-offs that complicate the derivation of a priori hypotheses. We conclude with a section highlighting the role of policymaking to maximize generative AI's potential to reduce inequalities while mitigating its harmful effects. We discuss strengths and weaknesses of existing policy frameworks in the European Union, the United States, and the United Kingdom, observing that each fails to fully confront the socioeconomic challenges we have identified. We propose several concrete policies that could promote shared prosperity through the advancement of generative AI. This article emphasizes the need for interdisciplinary collaborations to understand and address the complex challenges of generative AI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valerio Capraro
- Department of Psychology, University of Milan-Bicocca, Milan 20126, Italy
| | | | - Daron Acemoglu
- Institute Professor and Department of Economics, MIT, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Selin Akgun
- College of Education, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Aisel Akhmedova
- College of Education, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | | | | | - Pablo Brañas-Garza
- Loyola Behavioral Lab, Loyola Andalucia University, Córdoba 41740, Spain
| | - Luigi Butera
- Department of Economics, Copenhagen Business School, Frederiksberg 2000, Denmark
| | - Karen M Douglas
- School of Psychology, University of Kent, Canterbury CT27NP, UK
| | - Jim A C Everett
- School of Psychology, University of Kent, Canterbury CT27NP, UK
| | - Gerd Gigerenzer
- Max Planck Institute for Human Development, Berlin 14195, Germany
| | - Christine Greenhow
- College of Education, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Daniel A Hashimoto
- Department of Psychology, University of Milan-Bicocca, Milan 20126, Italy
- Department of Computer and Information Science, School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104-6309, USA
| | - Julianne Holt-Lunstad
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA
| | - Jolanda Jetten
- School of Psychology, University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4067, Australia
| | - Simon Johnson
- School of Management, MIT Sloan School of Management, Cambridge, MA 02142, USA
| | - Werner H Kunz
- Department of Marketing, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, MA 02125, USA
| | - Chiara Longoni
- Department of Marketing, Bocconi University, Milan 20136, Italy
| | - Pete Lunn
- Behavioural Research Unit, Economic & Social Research Institute, Dublin D02 K138, Ireland
| | - Simone Natale
- Department of Humanities, University of Turin, Turin 10125, Italy
| | - Stefanie Paluch
- Department of Service and Technology Marketing, Aarhus University, Aarhus 8000, Denmark
| | - Iyad Rahwan
- Center for Humans and Machines, Max Planck Institute for Human Development, Berlin 14195, Germany
| | - Neil Selwyn
- Faculty of Education, Monash University, Clayton VIC 3168, Australia
| | - Vivek Singh
- Penn Computer Assisted Surgery and Outcomes Laboratory, Department of Surgery, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | | | - Jennifer Sutcliffe
- College of Education, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Joe Tomlinson
- York Law School, University of York, York YO105DD, UK
| | | | - Paul A M Van Lange
- Department of Experimental and Applied Psychology, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam 1081HV, The Netherlands
| | - Friederike Wall
- Department of Management Control and Strategic Management, University of Klagenfurt, Klagenfurt am Wörthersee 9020, Austria
| | - Jay J Van Bavel
- Department of Psychology & Center for Neural Science, New York University, New York, NY 10012, USA
- Norwegian School of Economics, Bergen 5045, Norway
| | - Riccardo Viale
- CISEPS, University of Milan-Bicocca, Piazza dell'Ateneo Nuovo 1, Milan 20126, Italy
- Herbert Simon Society, Turin 10122, Italy
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6
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Fournier V, Varet F. Conspiracy beliefs and intention to use conventional, complementary and alternative medicines: Two vignette studies. Br J Health Psychol 2024; 29:333-350. [PMID: 37880094 DOI: 10.1111/bjhp.12702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Conspiracy beliefs (CBs) can have substantial consequences on health behaviours by influencing both conventional and non-conventional medicine uptake. They can target powerful groups (i.e. upward CBs) or powerless groups (i.e. downward CBs). Considering their repercussions in oncology, it appears useful to understand how CBs are related to the intentions to use conventional, complementary and alternative medicines (CAM). DESIGN AND METHODS This paper includes two pre-registered online correlational studies on a general French population (Study 1 N = 248, recruited on social media Mage = 40.07, SDage = 14.78; 205 women, 41 men and 2 non-binaries; Study 2 N = 313, recruited on social media and Prolific, Mage = 28.91, SDage = 9.60; 154 women, 149 men and 10 non-binaries). We investigated the links between generic and chemotherapy-related CBs and intentions to use conventional, complementary and alternative medicines. Study 2 consisted of a conceptual replication of Study 1, considering the orientation of CBs. RESULTS Generic CBs and chemotherapy-related CBs appear strongly and positively correlated, negatively correlated with intentions to take conventional medicine and positively with intentions to take CAM. The link between generic CBs and medication intention is fully mediated by chemotherapy-related CBs. When distinguished, upward CBs are a stronger predictor of chemotherapy-related CBs than downward CBs. CONCLUSIONS The findings suggest that intentions to use medicine are strongly associated with CBs. This has several important implications for further research and practice, notably on the presence and effects of CBs on medication behaviours in cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentyn Fournier
- CNRS, UMR 9193 - SCALab - Sciences Cognitives et Sciences Affectives, Université de Lille, Lille, France
- ULR 4072 - PSITEC - Psychologie: Interactions, Temps, Emotions, Cognition, Université de Lille, Lille, France
| | - Florent Varet
- Anthropo-Lab, ETHICS EA7446, Lille Catholic University, Lille, France
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7
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Marchlewska M, Górska P, Green R, Szczepańska D, Rogoza M, Molenda Z, Michalski P. From Individual Anxiety to Collective Narcissism? Adult Attachment Styles and Different Types of National Commitment. PERSONALITY AND SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY BULLETIN 2024; 50:495-515. [PMID: 36452963 DOI: 10.1177/01461672221139072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2023]
Abstract
National narcissism and national identification, two distinct types of national commitment, differ in terms of their psychological concomitants. Therefore, in the current article, we hypothesized that they would also relate to different adult attachment styles. Namely, we proposed that national narcissism would be positively associated with higher attachment anxiety, while national identification would be associated with lower attachment anxiety and avoidance. These hypotheses were tested in three cross-sectional surveys (Study 1 N = 570; Study 3 N = 558; Study 4 N = 649) and one longitudinal survey (Study 2 N = 808). In all studies, we found a consistent positive relationship between attachment anxiety and national narcissism, and a negative relationship between attachment avoidance and national identification. Finally, we also demonstrated indirect effects of attachment anxiety (via national narcissism) on maladaptive group-related outcomes: conspiracy beliefs, non-normative collective action, and willingness to conspire.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Dagmara Szczepańska
- Institute of Psychology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
- Institute of Philosophy and Sociology, The Maria Grzegorzewska University, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Marta Rogoza
- Institute of Psychology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Zuzanna Molenda
- Institute of Psychology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Piotr Michalski
- Institute of Psychology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
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8
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Kajiita RM, Kang’ethe SM. The Pandemics of Mass Destruction: A Comparative Analysis of HIV/AIDS and Coronavirus (COVID-19). J Multidiscip Healthc 2024; 17:889-899. [PMID: 38445068 PMCID: PMC10913803 DOI: 10.2147/jmdh.s440243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Historically, humanity has suffered and endured deadly pandemics of varying mortality rates. Irrefutably, research shows that the outbreak of pandemics is flooded by mythical and fallacious information among the public, hence stifling the prevention, treatment, and management of diseases. This paper focused on comparing selected aspects of the two pandemics, that is, HIV/AIDS and Coronavirus. This comparative analysis is important for drawing informative lessons for effective response and management of pandemics in the future. Through a literature review analysis, the paper established that both pandemics have more similarities than distinctions. The etiology and epidemiology of the diseases assume a similar cascading trajectory; the public health information about the diseases is characterized by myths, conspiracy theories, illusions, and delusions from the public. The myths associated with pandemics prevail around causation, disease transmission, and cure. The pandemics present economic paradoxes, though arguably the negatives outdo the positives. There is a need for the governments and international health custodians to be richly prepared for the pandemics in the future. This implies having special budgetary allocations for possible pandemic outbreaks, investing in vaccine development and disease surveillance, and training and skilling personnel in all social-health-related sectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Mutemi Kajiita
- Department of Social Work; Walter Sisulu University, Mthatha, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
| | - Simon Murote Kang’ethe
- Department of Social Work; Walter Sisulu University, Mthatha, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
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9
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Brunelli L, Scarpis E, Lo Presti T, Fiorillo F, Campanella F, Zuliani P, Farneti F, Croci E, Pellizzari B, Cocconi R, Arnoldo L. Health professionals who have worked in COVID-19 immunization centers suffer the effects of violence. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1264301. [PMID: 37799152 PMCID: PMC10548233 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1264301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The phenomenon violence against health professionals has received increasing attention in recent years because of its frequency and significant impact on victims' mental health and disruption of health services. Despite this attention, little is known about the incidence of workplace violence in the highly politicized immunization services. Therefore, we decided to examine the prevalence of workplace violence in the COVID-19 immunization campaign, the risk and protective factors, and the impact on victims' mental health. Methods Between March and April 2022, we conducted an anonymous online survey among health professionals working in COVID-19 vaccination centers in the Friuli-Venezia Giulia Region (Italy). We used the Questionnaire for Workplace Violence in Healthcare Settings and the Impact of Event Scale-Revised. Results Of the 200 participants, 93 (46.5%) reported being victims of an act of violence during the vaccination campaign, 60 of them verbally and 7 physically. In 35.5% of cases, the IES score indicated a possible post-traumatic stress reaction in the victim. Opinions on measures to prevent violence and support workers in the workplace differed according to the sex of the health professional, with women emphasizing the need for self-defense training and improvement of security arrangements (p < 0.001). Conclusion One-third of health professionals involved in the COVID-19 immunization campaign reported that their mental health was affected by workplace violence. Public health professionals dealing with politicized and debated issues such as immunization should receive more attention, as should the implementation of a more structured and multidisciplinary approach to the problem within healthcare organizations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Brunelli
- Department of Medicine, University of Udine, Udine, Italy
- Clinical Risk, Quality and Accreditation Unit, Friuli Centrale Healthcare University Trust, Udine, Italy
| | - Enrico Scarpis
- Medical Directorate of Palmanova-Latisana Hospital, Friuli Centrale Healthcare University Trust, Udine, Italy
| | | | - Francesca Fiorillo
- Regional Transplant Centre, Friuli Centrale Healthcare University Trust, Udine, Italy
| | - Fabio Campanella
- Neurosurgery Unit, Friuli Centrale Healthcare University Trust, Udine, Italy
| | - Paola Zuliani
- Clinical Risk, Quality and Accreditation Unit, Friuli Centrale Healthcare University Trust, Udine, Italy
| | - Federico Farneti
- Clinical Risk, Quality and Accreditation Unit, Friuli Centrale Healthcare University Trust, Udine, Italy
| | - Eleonora Croci
- Department of Prevention, Giuliano Isontina Healthcare University Trust, Trieste, Italy
| | - Barbara Pellizzari
- Department of Prevention, Friuli Occidentale Healthcare Trust, Pordenone, Italy
| | - Roberto Cocconi
- Clinical Risk, Quality and Accreditation Unit, Friuli Centrale Healthcare University Trust, Udine, Italy
| | - Luca Arnoldo
- Department of Medicine, University of Udine, Udine, Italy
- Clinical Risk, Quality and Accreditation Unit, Friuli Centrale Healthcare University Trust, Udine, Italy
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10
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Müller P, Hartmann M. Linking paranormal and conspiracy beliefs to illusory pattern perception through signal detection theory. Sci Rep 2023; 13:9739. [PMID: 37328598 PMCID: PMC10275861 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-36230-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Previous research indicates that irrational beliefs (Paranormal beliefs & conspiracy theory endorsement) are associated with the perception of patterns in noise, but the previous findings do not conclusively describe this relationship. This study aims to disentangle the underlying parameters of this association by applying a signal detection theory approach, thus allowing to distinguish illusory pattern perception (false alarms) from perceptual sensitivity and response tendencies-while also taking base rate information into account. Results from a large sample (N = 723) indicate that paranormal beliefs relate to a more liberal response bias and a lower perceptual sensitivity, and that this relationship is driven by illusory pattern perception. Such a clear pattern could not be observed for conspiracy beliefs, for which the increase in false alarm rates was moderated by the base rate. The associations between irrational beliefs and illusory pattern perception were however less substantial compared to other sources of variance. Implications are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petra Müller
- Faculty of Psychology, UniDistance Suisse, 3900, Brig, Switzerland.
- Institute of Psychology, Universität Bern, 3012, Bern, Switzerland.
| | - Matthias Hartmann
- Faculty of Psychology, UniDistance Suisse, 3900, Brig, Switzerland
- Institute of Psychology, Universität Bern, 3012, Bern, Switzerland
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11
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Regazzi L, Lontano A, Cadeddu C, Di Padova P, Rosano A. Conspiracy beliefs, COVID-19 vaccine uptake and adherence to public health interventions during the pandemic in Europe. Eur J Public Health 2023:7192366. [PMID: 37290405 PMCID: PMC10393495 DOI: 10.1093/eurpub/ckad089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Conspiracy beliefs can be a major hindrance causing a lack of compliance with public health measures, including vaccination. We examined the relationship between individual attitudes, socio-demographic factors, conspiracy beliefs, COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy and preferences about pandemic policies in Europe. METHODS We used data from the 10th round of the European Social Survey, conducted in 2021-22 in 17 European countries. Both a conspiracy index and a personal attitude index for each participant were built by using a Latent Class Analysis model. Then, we used a multilevel regression model to investigate the relationship between a personal attitudes index, socio-demographic factors and country of residence, and a conspiracy index. We descriptively analyse the relationship between the conspiracy index and four main items related to COVID-19. RESULTS We found that a higher probability of believing in conspiracy theories was associated with male gender, middle age, lower levels of education, unemployment, lower levels of trust and satisfaction and right-wing political orientation. The country of residence was a contextual factor, with eastern European countries having higher levels of conspiracy beliefs. Individuals who expressed conspiracy beliefs had lower COVID-19 vaccine uptake, were less satisfied with the way health services coped with the pandemic and less supportive of governmental restrictions. CONCLUSIONS This study provides valuable insights into the factors associated with conspiracy beliefs and their potential impact on public health. The findings highlight the need for effective strategies to address the underlying factors driving conspiracy beliefs, reduce vaccine hesitancy and promote acceptance of public health interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Regazzi
- Department of Life Sciences and Public Health, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Largo Francesco Vito 1, Rome 00168, Italy
| | - Alberto Lontano
- Department of Life Sciences and Public Health, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Largo Francesco Vito 1, Rome 00168, Italy
| | - Chiara Cadeddu
- Department of Life Sciences and Public Health, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Largo Francesco Vito 1, Rome 00168, Italy
| | - Pasquale Di Padova
- National Institute for the Analysis of Public Policies (INAPP), Rome, Italy
| | - Aldo Rosano
- National Institute for the Analysis of Public Policies (INAPP), Rome, Italy
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12
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Serdenes R, Arana F, Karasin J, Kontos N, Musselman M. Approaching differential diagnosis and decisional capacity assessment in the context of COVID-19 conspiracy beliefs: A narrative review and clinical discussion. Gen Hosp Psychiatry 2023; 83:75-80. [PMID: 37119781 PMCID: PMC10121076 DOI: 10.1016/j.genhosppsych.2023.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE COVID-19 conspiracy theories have become widespread since the onset of the pandemic and compound the existing challenges of decisional capacity assessment. This paper aims to review the literature pertaining to decisional capacity assessment in the context of COVID-19 conspiracy beliefs and synthesize a practical approach with an emphasis on differential diagnosis and clinical pearls for the practicing physician. METHODS We reviewed papers on decisional capacity assessment and differential diagnosis in the context of COVID-19 conspiracy beliefs. A literature search was conducted using the US National Library of Medicine's PubMed.gov resource and Google Scholar. RESULTS The resulting article content was utilized to synthesize a practical approach to decisional capacity assessment in the context of COVID-19 conspiracy beliefs. Specifically, aspects related to the history, taxonomy, evaluation, and management are reviewed. CONCLUSIONS Appreciating the nuanced differences between delusions, overvalued ideas, and obsessions while with integrating the non-cognitive domains of capacity into the assessment are crucial to navigating the wide differential diagnosis of COVID-19 conspiracy beliefs. It is important to attempt to clarify and optimize patient decision-making abilities by addressing circumstances, attitudes, and cognitive styles specific to patients with seemingly irrational beliefs about COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan Serdenes
- Department of Psychiatry, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States of America.
| | - Francesca Arana
- Department of Psychiatry, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States of America
| | - Jamie Karasin
- Department of Psychiatry, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States of America
| | - Nicholas Kontos
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States of America
| | - Meghan Musselman
- Department of Psychiatry, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, United States of America
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13
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Emotion dysregulation and belief in conspiracy theories. PERSONALITY AND INDIVIDUAL DIFFERENCES 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.paid.2022.112042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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14
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Douglas KM, Sutton RM. What Are Conspiracy Theories? A Definitional Approach to Their Correlates, Consequences, and Communication. Annu Rev Psychol 2023; 74:271-298. [PMID: 36170672 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-psych-032420-031329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Conspiracy theories are abundant in social and political discourse, with serious consequences for individuals, groups, and societies. However, psychological scientists have started paying close attention to them only in the past 20 years. We review the spectacular progress that has since been made and some of the limitations of research so far, and we consider the prospects for further progress. To this end, we take a step back to analyze the defining features that make conspiracy theories different in kind from other beliefs and different in degree from each other. We consider how these features determine the adoption, consequences, and transmission of belief in conspiracy theories, even though their role as causal or moderating variables has seldom been examined. We therefore advocate for a research agenda in the study of conspiracy theories that starts-as is routine in fields such as virology and toxicology-with a robust descriptive analysis of the ontology of the entity at its center.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen M Douglas
- School of Psychology, University of Kent, Canterbury, United Kingdom; ,
| | - Robbie M Sutton
- School of Psychology, University of Kent, Canterbury, United Kingdom; ,
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15
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Adam-Troian J, Chayinska M, Paladino MP, Uluğ ÖM, Vaes J, Wagner-Egger P. Of precarity and conspiracy: Introducing a socio-functional model of conspiracy beliefs. BRITISH JOURNAL OF SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY 2023; 62 Suppl 1:136-159. [PMID: 36366839 PMCID: PMC10100481 DOI: 10.1111/bjso.12597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Revised: 10/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Conspiracy Beliefs (CB) are a key vector of violent extremism, radicalism and unconventional political events. So far, social-psychological research has extensively documented how cognitive, emotional and intergroup factors can promote CB. Evidence also suggests that adherence to CB moves along social class lines: low-income and low-education are among the most robust predictors of CB. Yet, the potential role of precarity-the subjective experience of permanent insecurity stemming from objective material strain-in shaping CB remains largely unexplored. In this paper, we propose for the first time a socio-functional model of CB. We test the hypothesis that precarity could foster increased CB because it undermines trust in government and the broader political 'elites'. Data from the World Value Survey (n = 21,650; Study 1, electoral CB) and from representative samples from polls conducted in France (n = 1760, Study 2a, conspiracy mentality) and Italy (n = 2196, Study 2b, COVID-19 CB), corroborate a mediation model whereby precarity is directly and indirectly associated with lower trust in authorities and higher CB. In addition, these links are robust to adjustment on income, self-reported SES and education. Considering precarity allows for a truly social-psychological understanding of CB as the by-product of structural issues (e.g. growing inequalities). Results from our socio-functional model suggest that implementing solutions at the socio-economic level could prove efficient in fighting CB.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maria Chayinska
- Department of Cognitive, Psychological, and Pedagogical Sciences, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Maria Paola Paladino
- Department of Psychology and Cognitive Science, University of Trento, Trento, Italy
| | | | - Jeroen Vaes
- Department of Psychology and Cognitive Science, University of Trento, Trento, Italy
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16
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Bam NE. Strategies to address conspiracy beliefs and misinformation on COVID-19 in South Africa: A narrative literature review. Health SA 2022; 27:1851. [PMID: 36483504 PMCID: PMC9723965 DOI: 10.4102/hsag.v27i0.1851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 10/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Conspiracy theories and misinformation have been explored extensively however, strategies to minimise their impact in the context of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines are limited. This study aimed to explore strategies that can be used to reduce the negative effects of conspiracies and misinformation about SARS-CoV-2. This review was carried out based on accessed literature on beliefs in misinformation about the COVID-19 pandemic. A comprehensive search of databases, such as Google Scholar, EBSCOhost and African Journals between 2019 and 2022 yielded qualitative and quantitative studies. Two themes emerged, namely underlying motives for conspiracy theories and belief in misinformation about the pandemic and ways to overcome them. The latter included: (1) strengthening critical scanning of information, (2) critical review to address misinformation and (3) establishing approaches for managing conspiracy theories. A proposal is made to address conspiracy beliefs about COVID-19 infection. Contribution This is believed to be the first review that describes strategies to mitigate belief in conspiracies and misinformation to promote vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nokwanda E Bam
- School of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, North-West University, Mahikeng, South Africa
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17
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Ferrante VM, Lacourse É, Dorfman A, Pelletier-Dumas M, Lina JM, Stolle D, de la Sablonnière R. COVID-19, economic threat and identity status: Stability and change in prejudice against Chinese people within the Canadian population. Front Psychol 2022; 13:901352. [PMID: 36389476 PMCID: PMC9650986 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.901352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives Previous studies found a general increase in prejudice against Chinese people during the first months of the pandemic. The present study aims to consider inter-individual heterogeneity in stability and change regarding prejudice involving Chinese people during the pandemic. The first objective is to identify and describe different trajectories of prejudice over a seven-month period during the pandemic. The second and third objectives are to test the association between trajectory group membership and antecedent variables such as: socio-demographic factors (i.e., age, gender, political affiliation) and two psychological mechanisms, namely economic threat and global citizenship identification. Methods A representative Canadian sample (N = 3,617) according to age, gender and province of residence, was recruited for a 10-wave survey starting from April 2020 to December 2020. First, a group-based modeling approach was used to identify trajectories of prejudice. Second, a multinomial logistic regression model was used to test associations between membership in trajectories and antecedents. Results Four trajectories were identified. The first three trajectories have a low (71.4% of the sample), high (18.5%) or very high (5.3%) level of prejudice against Chinese people which is relatively stable over time. The fourth trajectory (4.9%) reports low levels of prejudice in favor of Chinese people which become more positive throughout 2020. Regarding socio-demographic factors: gender is not associated with trajectory group membership, younger people are more likely to follow the trajectory in favor of Chinese people and conservatives are more likely to follow the highest trajectories against Chinese people. Regarding some psychological mechanisms: personal but not collective economic threat is associated with the trajectory in favor of Chinese people. Finally, the highest levels of prejudice are found when the strategy of identification is more local rather than global. Conclusion The present study shows that Canadians differ in terms of both their level and change in prejudice against Chinese people throughout the pandemic with some socio-demographic groups being more likely than others to be associated with prejudice. The results also suggest that a promising way to tackle the major social issue of prejudice is to highlight a vision of the world where individuals are all "global citizens" facing the same challenge.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Éric Lacourse
- Department of Sociology, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Anna Dorfman
- Department of Psychology, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | | | - Jean-Marc Lina
- Department of Electrical Engineering, École de Technologie Supérieure de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Dietlind Stolle
- Department of Political Science, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
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18
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Tranter BK. Your money or your life? Public support for health initiatives during the COVID-19 pandemic. THE AUSTRALIAN JOURNAL OF SOCIAL ISSUES 2022; 57:544-561. [PMID: 35942302 PMCID: PMC9348312 DOI: 10.1002/ajs4.220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
While many Australians agree with the need for COVID-19 restrictions and lockdowns, a vocal minority of citizens loudly voice opposition to government restrictions, characterised as impositions on 'free speech' and impacting the Australian economy. National data from the 2020/21 Australian Survey of Social and Attitudes and Tasmanian survey data enable an examination of those who support or oppose health initiatives aimed at minimising the impact of the pandemic. The majority of Australians believed government imposed restrictions were 'about right', although women were more likely than men to be concerned about the health implications of COVID-19. Tasmanian data show that controlling for social background, those who prioritise the economy are less likely than those concerned about the health implications of COVID-19 to wear masks in public, less likely to be tested in case they have to self-isolate, less likely to check in, and less likely to be vaccinated. Alternatively, higher trust in university research, and trust in scientists as a source of information about COVID-19 was positively associated with attitudes and behaviour designed to reduce the transmission of COVID-19.
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19
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Scheffer M, Borsboom D, Nieuwenhuis S, Westley F. Belief traps: Tackling the inertia of harmful beliefs. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2022; 119:e2203149119. [PMID: 35858376 PMCID: PMC9371746 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2203149119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Beliefs can be highly resilient in the sense that they are not easily abandoned in the face of counterevidence. This has the advantage of guiding consistent behavior and judgments but may also have destructive consequences for individuals, nature, and society. For instance, pathological beliefs can sustain psychiatric disorders, the belief that rhinoceros horn is an aphrodisiac may drive a species extinct, beliefs about gender or race may fuel discrimination, and belief in conspiracy theories can undermine democracy. Here, we present a unifying framework of how self-amplifying feedbacks shape the inertia of beliefs on levels ranging from neuronal networks to social systems. Sustained exposure to counterevidence can destabilize rigid beliefs but requires organized rational override as in cognitive behavioral therapy for pathological beliefs or institutional control of discrimination to reduce racial biases. Black-and-white thinking is a major risk factor for the formation of resilient beliefs associated with psychiatric disorders as well as prejudices and conspiracy thinking. Such dichotomous thinking is characteristic of a lack of cognitive resources, which may be exacerbated by stress. This could help explain why conspiracy thinking and psychiatric disorders tend to peak during crises. A corollary is that addressing social factors such as poverty, social cleavage, and lack of education may be the most effective way to prevent the emergence of rigid beliefs, and thus of problems ranging from psychiatric disorders to prejudices, conspiracy theories, and posttruth politics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marten Scheffer
- Department of Ecology and Evolution, Wageningen University & Research, 6700 AA Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Denny Borsboom
- Universiteit van Amsterdam, 1012 WX Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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20
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Cichocka A, Marchlewska M, Biddlestone M. Why do narcissists find conspiracy theories so appealing? Curr Opin Psychol 2022; 47:101386. [PMID: 35816915 DOI: 10.1016/j.copsyc.2022.101386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2022] [Revised: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Narcissism-a conviction about one's superiority and entitlement to special treatment-is a robust predictor of belief in conspiracy theories. Recent developments in the study of narcissism suggest that it has three components: antagonism, agentic extraversion, and neuroticism. We argue that each of these components of narcissism might predispose people to endorse conspiracy theories due to different psychological processes. Specifically, we discuss the role of paranoia, gullibility, and the needs for dominance, control, and uniqueness. We also review parallel findings for narcissistic beliefs about one's social groups. We consider the wider implications this research might have, especially for political leadership. We conclude by discussing outstanding questions about sharing conspiracy theories and other forms of misinformation.
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21
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Climate of conspiracy: A meta-analysis of the consequences of belief in conspiracy theories about climate change. Curr Opin Psychol 2022; 46:101390. [DOI: 10.1016/j.copsyc.2022.101390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Revised: 06/03/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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22
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Marques MD, Douglas KM, Jolley D. Practical recommendations to communicate with patients about health-related conspiracy theories. Med J Aust 2022; 216:381-384. [PMID: 35430740 PMCID: PMC9325074 DOI: 10.5694/mja2.51475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2021] [Revised: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Daniel Jolley
- University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NOTTS, United Kingdom
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23
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Bilewicz M. Conspiracy beliefs as an adaptation to historical trauma. Curr Opin Psychol 2022; 47:101359. [DOI: 10.1016/j.copsyc.2022.101359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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24
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Jolley D, Marques MD, Cookson D. Shining a spotlight on the dangerous consequences of conspiracy theories. Curr Opin Psychol 2022; 47:101363. [PMID: 35732091 PMCID: PMC9142208 DOI: 10.1016/j.copsyc.2022.101363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2022] [Revised: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has illuminated how conspiracy beliefs–that explain important events as the secret actions of the powerful–can severely impact health choices (such as reduced infection-prevention behaviours). However, the consequences of conspiracy beliefs span far beyond the topic of COVID-19. This review shines a spotlight on how conspiracy beliefs could impact public and personal health (e.g., vaccine uptake), democratic citizenship (e.g., political engagement), intergroup relations (e.g., prejudice and discrimination), and may inspire violence and extremism. We argue that conspiracy beliefs are likely to have the power to mobilise citizens in ways detrimental to a smooth-running society. We conclude the review by offering a range of fruitful avenues for future investigation.
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25
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Williams MN, Marques MD, Hill SR, Kerr JR, Ling M. Why are beliefs in different conspiracy theories positively correlated across individuals? Testing monological network versus unidimensional factor model explanations. BRITISH JOURNAL OF SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY 2022; 61:1011-1031. [PMID: 35083755 DOI: 10.1111/bjso.12518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
A substantial minority of the public express belief in conspiracy theories. A robust phenomenon in this area is that people who believe one conspiracy theory are more likely to believe in others. But the reason for this "positive manifold" of belief in conspiracy theories is unclear. One possibility is that a single underlying latent factor (e.g. "conspiracism") causes variation in belief in specific conspiracy theories. Another possibility is that beliefs in various conspiracy theories support one another in a mutually reinforcing network of beliefs (the "monological belief system" theory). While the monological theory has been influential in the literature, the fact that it can be operationalised as a statistical network model has not previously been recognised. In this study, we therefore tested both the unidimensional factor model and a network model. Participants were 1553 American adults recruited via Prolific. Belief in conspiracies was measured using an adapted version of the Belief in Conspiracy Theories Inventory. The fit of the two competing models was evaluated both by using van Bork et al.'s (Psychometrika, 83, 2018, 443, Multivariate Behavioral Research, 56, 2019, 175) method for testing network versus unidimensional factor models, as well as by evaluating goodness of fit to the sample covariance matrix. In both cases, evaluation of fit according to our pre-registered inferential criteria favoured the network model.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Mathew Ling
- Deakin University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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26
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Hong YY, Chan HW, Douglas KM. Conspiracy Theories about Infectious Diseases: An Introduction. JOURNAL OF PACIFIC RIM PSYCHOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1177/18344909211057657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding why people believe conspiracy theories related to disease outbreaks and the consequences of such beliefs is critical for combating both the COVID-19 pandemic and its corresponding “infodemic.” In the introduction to this special issue on conspiracy theories about infectious diseases, the authors first provide a brief overview of the narratives of conspiracy theories related to COVID-19, followed by a review of extant theoretical frameworks regarding the psychology of conspiracy beliefs. Specifically, they discuss how epistemic, existential, and social needs contribute to the holding of conspiracy beliefs. Then, the authors summarize the major findings from the nine empirical articles featured in this issue, particularly how they shed light on the antecedents and consequences of disease-related conspiracy beliefs. They conclude by discussing future directions for the study of disease-related conspiracy beliefs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying-yi Hong
- Department of Management, The Chinese University of Hong Kong
| | - Hoi-Wing Chan
- Department of Applied Social Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
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27
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The Paradox of Conspiracy Theory: The Positive Impact of Beliefs in Conspiracy Theories on Preventive Actions and Vaccination Intentions during the COVID-19 Pandemic. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph182211825. [PMID: 34831589 PMCID: PMC8624959 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182211825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2021] [Revised: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
This study aims to analyze the direct and indirect impact of beliefs in conspiracy theories on COVID-19-related preventive actions and vaccination intentions. The dominant theory in the literature is that beliefs in conspiracy theories have negative consequences. In particular, strong beliefs in conspiracy theories lower people’s intentions to engage in preventive actions and get vaccinated. Previous studies indicated that this dominant theory applies in Korea as well. However, we find that this dominant theory does not apply in Korea. Based on an analysis of survey data, we find that beliefs in conspiracy theories have positive impact on preventive actions and vaccination intentions. In addition, beliefs in conspiracy theories play indirect roles in these two responses to COVID-19. Specifically, when perceived benefits and trust in the government or science enhance preventive actions or increase vaccination intentions, strong beliefs in conspiracy theories promote this effect. This positive role of conspiracy theories is paradoxical because they are generally viewed as negative.
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28
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Siem B, Kretzmeyer, B, Stürmer S. The role of self-evaluation in predicting attitudes toward supporters of COVID-19-related conspiracy theories: A direct and a conceptual replication of Cichocka et al. (2016). JOURNAL OF PACIFIC RIM PSYCHOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1177/18344909211052587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
We examined the role of people’s self-evaluation in predicting their attitudes toward supporters of COVID-19-related conspiracy theories by replicating and extending the findings of a study by Cichocka et al. (2016, Study 3) in two preregistered studies (total N = 1179). Study 1, a direct replication, confirmed that narcissism and self-esteem—two different sources of people’s self-evaluation—differentially predicted their beliefs in a series of well-known conspiracy theories (not related to COVID-19), and served as mutual suppressor variables. Specifically, narcissism was positively related and self-esteem was negatively related to conspiracy beliefs, especially when the respective other predictor was controlled for. Study 2 extended Cichocka’s and our Study 1’s findings by testing the differential role of self-esteem and narcissism in predicting a COVID-19-specific criterion. Specifically, we focused on people’s rejection of supporters of COVID-19 conspiracy theories, a criterion we deem particularly important in curtailing the spread of these theories. Results were generally in line with previous findings, but effects were substantially weaker. As suggested by exploratory analyses, this might be due to the fact that the overall rejection of supporters measure comprises not only items capturing rejection of supporters but also items capturing low beliefs in conspiracy theories. These two distinct components differentially related to self-esteem and narcissism: the differential role of self-esteem and narcissism could only be replicated for the “low belief” subcomponent (thus replicating findings from the original study and from Study 1) but not for the “rejection of supporters” subcomponent. The present work thus contributes to recent research suggesting that low belief in conspiracy theories and the rejection of their supporters might be qualitatively different responses with unique antecedents.
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29
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Gualda E, Krouwel A, Palacios-Gálvez M, Morales-Marente E, Rodríguez-Pascual I, García-Navarro EB. Social Distancing and COVID-19: Factors Associated With Compliance With Social Distancing Norms in Spain. Front Psychol 2021; 12:727225. [PMID: 34594280 PMCID: PMC8476756 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.727225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
This article describes patterns of compliance with social distancing measures among the Spanish population during the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. It identifies several factors associated with higher or lower compliance with recommended measures of social distancing. This research is part of a 67-country study, titled the International COVID-19 study on Social & Moral Psychology, in which we use a Spanish dataset. Participants were residents in Spain aged 18 or above. The sample comprises 1,090 respondents, weighted to be representative of the Spanish population. Frequencies, correlations, bivariate analysis, and six models based on hierarchical multiple regressions were applied. The main finding is that most Spaniards are compliant with established guidelines of social distance during the pandemic (State of Alarm, before May 2020). Variables associated more with lower levels of compliance with these standards were explored. Six hierarchical multiple regression models found that compliance with social distance measures has a multifactorial explanation (R 2 between 20.4 and 49.1%). Sociodemographic factors, personal hygiene patterns, and the interaction between personal hygiene patterns and the support for political measures related to the coronavirus brought significant effects on the regression models. Less compliance was also associated with beliefs in some specific conspiracy theories with regard to COVID-19 or general conspiracy mentality (Conspiracy Mentality Questionnaire, CMQ), consumption patterns of traditional mass media (television, paper newspapers, magazines, and radio) and modern means to get informed (online digital newspapers, blogs, and social networks), political ideology, vote, trust in institutions, and political identification. Among the future lines of action in preventing the possible outbreak of the virus, we suggest measures to reinforce trust in official information, mainly linked to reducing the influence of disinformation and conspiracy theories parallel to the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Estrella Gualda
- Social Studies and Social Intervention Research Center, Contemporary Thinking and Innovation for Social Development Research Center, Faculty of Social Work, University of Huelva, Huelva, Spain
| | - Andre Krouwel
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Marisol Palacios-Gálvez
- Contemporary Thinking and Innovation for Social Development, Faculty of Education, Psychology and Sport Sciences, University of Huelva, Huelva, Spain
| | - Elena Morales-Marente
- Contemporary Thinking and Innovation for Social Development, Faculty of Education, Psychology and Sport Sciences, University of Huelva, Huelva, Spain
| | - Iván Rodríguez-Pascual
- Social Studies and Social Intervention Research Center, Contemporary Thinking and Innovation for Social Development Research Center, Faculty of Social Work, University of Huelva, Huelva, Spain
| | - E. Begoña García-Navarro
- Social Studies and Social Intervention Research Center, Contemporary Thinking and Innovation for Social Development Research Center, Faculty of Nursing, University of Huelva, Huelva, Spain
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30
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Biddlestone M, Green R, Cichocka A, Sutton R, Douglas K. Conspiracy beliefs and the individual, relational, and collective selves. SOCIAL AND PERSONALITY PSYCHOLOGY COMPASS 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/spc3.12639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Ricky Green
- School of Psychology University of Kent Canterbury UK
| | | | - Robbie Sutton
- School of Psychology University of Kent Canterbury UK
| | - Karen Douglas
- School of Psychology University of Kent Canterbury UK
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Marchlewska M, Green R, Cichocka A, Molenda Z, Douglas KM. From bad to worse: Avoidance coping with stress increases conspiracy beliefs. BRITISH JOURNAL OF SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY 2021; 61:532-549. [PMID: 34462919 DOI: 10.1111/bjso.12494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The present research empirically examines how different types of coping strategies are associated with belief in conspiracy theories. Conspiracy beliefs have been linked to the frustration of basic needs and seem to increase during major world events that evoke stress. Thus, we hypothesized that they may serve as a psychological response to maladaptive coping strategies. This hypothesis was tested among British participants and conceptually replicated across three studies. Cross-sectionally, we examined coping strategies (i.e., self-sufficient, social-support, avoidance, and religious) and belief in a specific conspiracy theory (Study 1, n = 199) and belief in general notions of conspiracy (Study 2, n = 411). In Study 3 (n = 398), we experimentally primed different coping styles via a mnemonic recollection procedure and measured belief in notions of conspiracy. Avoidance coping (recognized as being maladaptive and leading to at least temporary disengagement and abandonment of goal-related behaviours) positively predicted belief in conspiracy theories (Studies 1 and 2). In Study 3, priming avoidance coping (vs. self-sufficient coping or no coping strategy) significantly increased belief in conspiracy theories. These findings suggest that using maladaptive coping strategies (either dispositional or situationally induced) may foster conspiracy beliefs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ricky Green
- School of Psychology, University of Kent, UK
| | | | - Zuzanna Molenda
- Institute of Psychology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland
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Stojanov A, Douglas K. Conspiracy beliefs in Britain and North Macedonia: A comparative study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PSYCHOLOGY 2021; 57:209-217. [PMID: 34423441 DOI: 10.1002/ijop.12801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2020] [Accepted: 07/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
The psychological research on conspiracy beliefs to date has focused predominantly on conspiracy beliefs in Western democracies. The current study sought to fill this gap by examining beliefs in conspiracy theories in a democratic society and a society in transition. British (N = 298) and Macedonian (N = 312) participants completed an online questionnaire measuring conspiracy beliefs, trust in media and institutions and support for democratic principles. Macedonian participants endorsed conspiracy theories more than British. In addition, support for democratic principles, low trust in institutions and media were significant predictors of conspiracy beliefs. The relationship between trust and conspiracy beliefs was moderated by country, such that it was significantly stronger in the British group. This study draws attention to the need for cross-societal research on belief in conspiracy theories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Stojanov
- Institute of Psychology, Faculty of Philosophy, Ss Cyril and Methodius University, Skopje, Republic of North Macedonia.,School of Psychology, University of Kent, Kent, UK.,Department of Psychology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
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Kahambing JGS. COVID-19, conspiracies and manufactured consent. J Public Health (Oxf) 2021; 44:e465-e466. [PMID: 34296271 PMCID: PMC8344778 DOI: 10.1093/pubmed/fdab300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2021] [Revised: 07/04/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Questions about what comes next for the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic have been posed by the editors to everyone except those who proliferate conspiracy theories. Conspiracy theories have consequences for public health. Making these dangers known can initiate discussions on public trust. The problem is that the pressing concerns of the pandemic have enabled manufactured consent to be a suspicious thing known of the propaganda model more than ever. Although such a model can be put into question, the public must also be able to practice empathy and true choice so that asking and responding to the questions at hand considers a responsibility to public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Gresil S Kahambing
- Social Science Unit, Leyte Normal University, Tacloban City, Philippines, Paterno Street, Tacloban City 6500, Philippines
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