Dr Daniel Jolley

More than a Prejudice Reduction Effect: Positive Intergroup Contact Reduces Conspiracy Theory Beliefs

Daniel Jolley, Charles Seger, and Rose Meleady

2023, European Journal of Social Psychology (IF: 3.930, Q1)

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/ejsp.2973

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/371608611_More_than_a_Prejudice_Reduction_Effect_Positive_Intergroup_Contact_Reduces_Conspiracy_Theory_Beliefs (open access)

Altmetric Score: > 141

Citations: > 0 (Google Scholar)

Abstract: Emerging research suggests intergroup contact has broader implications than prejudice reduction. In three studies, we explored whether positive intergroup contact may serve as a means to reduce conspiracy beliefs. Study 1 (n = 287, pre-registered) demonstrated that (high quality) contact with immigrants predicted lower belief in immigrant conspiracy theories, a finding that remained when controlling for prejudice. This was replicated in a second study (N = 501), where positive contact with Jewish people predicted lower Jewish conspiracy beliefs. A third study (N = 214) provided experimental evidence of this effect by manipulating exposure to positive contact through mental imagery. In exploratory analyses, we also found that positive contact was associated with lower general conspiracy theorizing via reduced immigrant (Study 1) and Jewish (Study 2) conspiracy beliefs. Our work develops a framework where positive contact could be used as an important tool to reduce harmful conspiracy beliefs.

Refusing to Pay Taxes: Loneliness, Conspiracy Theorising and Non-Normative Political Action

Daniel Jolley, Jenny Paterson & Rebecca Thomas.

2023, Social Psychology (IF: 3.444, Q1)

https://econtent.hogrefe.com/doi/full/10.1027/1864-9335/a000529

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/371469536_Refusing_to_Pay_Taxes_Loneliness_Conspiracy_Theorising_and_Non-Normative_Political_Action (open access)

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Altmetric Score: > 4

Citations: > 0 (Google Scholar)

Abstract: Conspiracy theorising can motivate non-normative intentions (e.g., tax evasion and violence). However, less is known about the contributors of these conspiracy-inspired intentions or if they translate into behaviours. Two studies (N = 1,155) found a positive correlation between loneliness and conspiracy theorising, which in turn related to non-normative intentions. Study 3 (n = 234) provided further evidence of these relationships through serial mediations: participants who remembered a lonely experience (vs. control) reported feeling lonelier, which was positively linked to conspiracy beliefs, and subsequently associated with non-normative intentions and a new behavioural measure (actual tax evasion). While our findings consistently link loneliness to conspiracy theorising and non-normative actions, future research utilising longitudinal designs would bolster confidence in our theoretical framework.

Shining a spotlight on the dangerous consequences of conspiracy theories

Daniel Jolley, Mathew Marques, and Darel Cookson

2022, Current Opinion in Psychology (IF: 6.813, Q1)

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.copsyc.2022.101363 (open access)

Watch a video explainer here.

Altmetric Score: > 212

Citations: > 22 (Google Scholar)

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.

Bullying and conspiracy theories: Experiences of workplace bullying and the tendency to engage in conspiracy theorising

Daniel Jolley and Anthony Lantian

2022, Social Psychology (IF: 3.444, Q1)

https://econtent.hogrefe.com/doi/10.1027/1864-9335/a000492

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/361638901_Bullying_and_conspiracy_theories_Experiences_of_workplace_bullying_and_the_tendency_to_engage_in_conspiracy_theorising (open access)

Watch a video explainer here.

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Altmetric Score: > 385

Citations: > 2 (Google Scholar)

Abstract: Experiences of bullying in the workplace can increase anxiety, paranoia, and hypervigilance to threat in victims. Such factors are also associated with conspiracy beliefs. Two pre-registered studies (cross-sectional and experimental) tested whether bullying experiences may be linked to the development of conspiracy beliefs. Study 1 (n = 273) demonstrated that experiences of workplace bullying were positively associated with conspiracy beliefs, an effect that could be explained by paranoia. In Study 2 (n = 206), participants who imagined being bullied (vs. supported) reported increased belief in conspiracy theories. Our research uncovers another antecedent of conspiracy beliefs: workplace bullying. Future research should endeavour to explore how best to support victims and avert the link between being bullied and conspiracy theorising emerging.

Practical recommendations to communicate with patients about health-related conspiracy theories

Mathew Marques, Karen Douglas, and Daniel Jolley

2022, The Medical Journal of Australia (IF: 12.776, Q1)

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.5694/mja2.51475 (open access)

Altmetric Score: > 204

Citations: > 5 (Google Scholar)

Abstract: Health-related conspiracy theories often advance the argument that information is being kept secret from the public by powerful individuals or groups within the government or health industry. They are widespread and are associated with important health attitudes, intentions, and behaviours. Recent research suggests that individuals are attracted to conspiracy theories to satisfy three important and fundamental psychological needs: epistemic, existential, and social needs. Understanding these underlying motivations associated with health-related conspiracy theories can help address patients’ beliefs. Debunking and inoculation are discussed as approaches that can be used to address patients’ belief in health-related conspiracy theories.

Examining the links between conspiracy beliefs and the EU “Brexit” referendum vote in the UK: evidence from a two-wave survey

Daniel Jolley, Karen M. Douglas, Marta Marchlewska, Aleksandra Cichocka, and Robbie M. Sutton

2022, Journal of Applied Social Psychology (IF: 2.654, Q2)

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/jasp.12829

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/353978632_Examining_the_links_between_conspiracy_beliefs_and_the_EU_Brexit_referendum_vote_in_the_UK_evidence_from_a_two-wave_survey (open access)

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Altmetric Score: > 11

Citations: > 15 (Google Scholar)

Abstract: This research examined the link between conspiracy beliefs and political decisions in the context of the 2016 European Union referendum in the United Kingdom. In a longitudinal study, we surveyed British participants at two-time points (one week before the referendum vs. immediately after the referendum). At both time points, participants (n = 334) indicated their belief in conspiracy theories specific to the referendum, their general tendencies toward conspiracy theorising, their political orientation, and support for leaving the EU, followed by how they voted in the referendum, taken at Time 2. Using cross-lagged path analysis, we found that conspiracy beliefs specific to the referendum predicted both support for leaving the EU, and voting to leave the EU, above and beyond political orientation. We also found that the general tendency towards conspiracy theorising predicted belief in conspiracy theories relevant to the referendum, which subsequently led to increased support for leaving the EU. The chief novelty of this research lies in its longitudinal design, allowing us to conclude that conspiracy beliefs precede political behaviours in a temporal sequence.

Measuring adolescents’ beliefs in conspiracy theories: Development and validation of the Adolescent Conspiracy Beliefs Questionnaire (ACBQ)

Daniel Jolley, Karen Douglas, Yvonne Skipper, Eleanor Thomas, and Darel Cookson

2021, British Journal of Developmental Psychology (IF: 2.148, Q2)

https://bpspsychub.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/bjdp.12368 (open access)

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/348576193_Measuring_adolescents'_beliefs_in_conspiracy_theories_Development_and_validation_of_the_Adolescent_Conspiracy_Beliefs_Questionnaire_ACBQ (open access)

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Citations: > 34 (Google Scholar)

Altmetric Score: > 196

You can watch a Video on the ACBQ.

In addition, we wrote a piece for The Conversation:

News article: Jolley, D., Douglas, K., & Skipper, Y. (2021). Conspiracy theories start to take hold at age 14, study suggests. The Conversation.

Abstract: Four studies (total n = 961) developed and validated the Adolescent Conspiracy Beliefs Questionnaire (ACBQ). Initial items were developed in collaboration with teachers. An Exploratory Factor Analysis (Study 1, n = 208, aged 11-14) and a student focus group (N = 3, aged 11) enabled us to establish the factor structure of a 9-item scale. This was replicated via Confirmatory Factor Analysis in Study 2 (N = 178, aged 11-17), and the scale displayed good convergent (i.e., relationship with paranoia and mistrust) and discriminant validity (i.e., no relationship with extraversion). Study 3a (N = 257) further tested convergent validity with a sample of 18-year olds (i.e., relationship with adult-validated measures of conspiracy beliefs), and demonstrated strong test re-test reliability. Study 3b (N = 318) replicated these findings with a mixed-age adult sample. The ACBQ will allow researchers to explore the psychological antecedents and consequences of conspiracy thinking in young populations.

Conspiracy Theories in the classroom: Problems and potential solutions

Asbjørn Dyrendal and Daniel Jolley

2020, Religions

https://www.mdpi.com/2077-1444/11/10/494 (open access)

Altmetric Score: > 24

Citations: > 14 (Google Scholar)

Abstract: Conspiracy narratives and speculative rumors of a conspiracist nature are intermittently popular in youth culture, as well as in political discourse. The general motivations of conspiracy beliefs relate to essential needs (for knowledge, to feel safe and secure, to feel good about oneself and one’s group), but evidence shows these needs are not actually served by conspiracy beliefs. Conspiracy theories tend to be explanations that conflict with best academic knowledge, and belief in them leads to less support for democratic processes and institutions. They play a role in political polarization, and they are used in identity-protective cognition. They may both express and arouse “strong feelings and divide communities and society”. Conspiracy theories as a general topic thus satisfy general criteria for controversial issues. At the same time, they are particularly interesting because they hover between the superficially and the inherently controversial: although in practice often resistant to contradictory evidence, they generally appeal to reason and evidence. While they sometimes are rooted in deep religious and religion-like beliefs, we argue that this makes them good cases for practicing analytical skills that could better serve all the needs above. Since cases and topics can cover the gamut from the subject-related to the cross-curricular and civic behavior, and the skills should be broadly transferable, using conspiracy theories as a topic has a high possible upside. However, conspiracy theories in a school setting have not yet been a topic of much research. This article takes as its starting point interviews with teachers and preliminary investigations of adolescents, before presenting an outline of possible didactic tools for teachers based on the general findings of effective interventions on conspiracy beliefs and related issues.

Pylons ablaze: Examining the role of 5G COVID‐19 conspiracy beliefs and support for violence

Daniel Jolley and Jenny Paterson

2020, British Journal of Social Psychology (IF: 6.920, Q1)

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/bjso.12394 (open access)

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2-page written primer can be found here and press release here.

Citations: > 340 (Google Scholar)

Altmetric Score: > 227

Abstract: Amid increased acts of violence against telecommunication engineers and property, this pre‐registered study (N  = 601 Britons) investigated the association between beliefs in 5G COVID‐19 conspiracy theories and the justification and willingness to use violence. Findings revealed that belief in 5G COVID‐19 conspiracy theories was positively correlated with state anger, which in turn, was associated with a greater justification of real‐life and hypothetical violence in response to an alleged link between 5G mobile technology and COVID‐19, alongside a greater intent to engage in similar behaviours in the future. Moreover, these associations were strongest for those highest in paranoia. Furthermore, we show that these patterns are not specific to 5G conspiratorial beliefs: General conspiracy mentality was positively associated with justification and willingness for general violence, an effect mediated by heightened state anger, especially for those most paranoid in the case of justification of violence. Such research provides novel evidence on why and when conspiracy beliefs may justify the use of violence.

Consequences of conspiracy theories

Daniel Jolley, Karen Douglas and Silvia Mari

2020, written evidence submitted to the Home Affairs Committee on Home Office preparedness for COVID-19 (Coronavirus) Inquiry

https://committees.parliament.uk/writtenevidence/5444/pdf/ (COR0158)

Executive summary:
a. A growing body of research has shown that conspiracy theories can negatively impact individuals and society in a variety of areas, including their work life, medical choices and political engagement.
b. In our evidence, we articulate how conspiracy theories are likely to have a negative impact during the COVID-19 crisis in similar ways.
c. Counterarguments to dispel conspiracy theories are important, but developing proactive approaches (such as improving people’s critical thinking abilities) is also crucial.

Exposure to intergroup conspiracy theories promotes prejudice which spreads across groups

Daniel Jolley, Rose Meleady and Karen Douglas

2020, British Journal of Psychology (IF: 4.981, Q1)

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/bjop.12385

You can access an open copy here.

Citations: > 201 (Google Scholar)

Altmetric Score: > 130

In addition, we wrote a piece for The Conversation:

News article: Jolley, D. & Douglas, K. (2019). Conspiracy theories fuel prejudice towards minority groups. The Conversation

Abstract: This research experimentally examined the effects of exposure to intergroup conspiracy theories on prejudice and discrimination. Study 1 (N = 166) demonstrated that exposure to conspiracy theories concerning immigrants to Britain from the European Union (vs. anti-conspiracy material or a control) exacerbated prejudice towards this group. Study 2 (N = 173) found the same effect in a different intergroup context—exposure to conspiracy theories about Jewish people (vs. anti-conspiracy material or a control) increased prejudice towards this group and reduced participants’ willingness to vote for a Jewish political candidate. Finally, Study 3 (N = 114) demonstrated that exposure to conspiracy theories about Jewish people not only increased prejudice towards this group but was indirectly associated with increased prejudice towards a number of secondary outgroups (e.g., Asians, Arabs, Americans, Irish, Australians). The current research suggests that conspiracy theories may have potentially damaging and widespread consequences for intergroup relations.

Consequences of conspiracy theories

Daniel Jolley, Silvia Mari and Karen Douglas

2020, Book Chapter in Routledge Handbook of Conspiracy Theories (pp. 231-241)

https://www.routledge.com/Routledge-Handbook-of-Conspiracy-Theories-1st-Edition/Butter-Knight/p/book/9780815361749

Cites: >21 (Google Scholar)

Abstract: This chapter outlines what is known to date, and reviews the psychological research on the positive and negative consequences of conspiracy theories. It argues that future research efforts should attempt to address the negative psychological and behavioural consequences of conspiracy theories. Conspiracy theories at first glance appear to satisfy important psychological needs. For example, conspiracy theories may allow people to gain an accurate and consistent understanding of the world; for example, people who need concrete answers and those showing a tendency to overestimate the likelihood of co-occurring events are more likely to be drawn to conspiracy theories. Although there is little empirical evidence, some research suggests that there may be positive consequences of endorsing conspiracy theories. In a similar vein, conspiracy theories may in certain contexts inspire collective action and social change attempts, especially in reaction to threatening events. Potentially, therefore, they have the capacity to satisfy existential needs.

Belief in conspiracy theories and intentions to engage in everyday crime

Daniel Jolley, Karen Douglas, Ana Leite and Tanya Schrader

2019, British Journal of Social Psychology (IF: 6.920, Q1)

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bjso.12311

You can access an open copy here.

[Open Science – Data + Code]

See some example media coverage here.

Citations: > 145(Google Scholar)

Altmetric Score: > 235

Abstract: Belief in conspiracy theories is associated with negative outcomes such as political disengagement, prejudice, and environmental inaction. The current studies – one cross‐sectional (N = 253) and one experimental (N = 120) – tested the hypothesis that belief in conspiracy theories would increase intentions to engage in everyday crime. Study 1 demonstrated that belief in conspiracy theories predicted everyday crime behaviours when controlling for other known predictors of everyday crime (e.g., Honesty–Humility). Study 2 demonstrated that exposure to conspiracy theories (vs. control) increased intentions to engage in everyday crime in the future, through an increased feeling of anomie. The perception that others have conspired may therefore in some contexts lead to negative action rather than inaction.

Blaming a few bad apples to save a threatened barrel: The system‐justifying function of conspiracy theories

Daniel Jolley, Karen Douglas and Robbie Sutton

2018, Political Psychology (IF: 4.804, Q1)

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/pops.12404

You can access an open copy here.

Citations: > 142 (Google Scholar)

Altmetric Score: > 130

Abstract: This research demonstrates that conspiracy theories—often represented as subversive alternatives to establishment narratives—may bolster, rather than undermine, support for the social status quo when its legitimacy is under threat. A pilot study (N = 98) found a positive relationship between conspiracy belief and satisfaction with the status quo. In Study 1 (N = 120), threatening (vs. affirming) the status quo in British society caused participants to endorse conspiracy theories. In Study 2 (N = 159), exposure to conspiracy theories increased satisfaction with the British social system after this had been experimentally threatened. In Study 3 (N = 109), this effect was mediated by the tendency for participants exposed (vs. not exposed) to conspiracy theories to attribute societal problems relatively more strongly to small groups of people rather than systemic causes. By blaming tragedies, disasters, and social problems on the actions of a malign few, conspiracy theories can divert attention from the inherent limitations of social systems.

Prevention is better than cure: Addressing anti‐vaccine conspiracy theories

Daniel Jolley and Karen Douglas

2017, Journal of Applied Social Psychology (IF: 2.654, Q2)

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/jasp.12453

You can access an open copy here.

Citations: > 385 (Google Scholar)

Altmetric Score: > 334

Abstract: The current research tested if explicit anti‐conspiracy arguments could be an effective method of addressing the potentially harmful effects of anti‐vaccine conspiracy theories. In two studies, participants were presented with anti‐conspiracy arguments either before, or after reading arguments in favor of popular conspiracy theories concerning vaccination. In both studies, anti‐conspiracy arguments increased intentions to vaccinate a fictional child but only when presented prior to conspiracy theories. This effect was mediated by belief in anti‐vaccine conspiracy theories and the perception that vaccines are dangerous. These findings suggest that people can be inoculated against the potentially harmful effects of anti‐vaccine conspiracy theories, but that once they are established, the conspiracy theories may be difficult to correct.

The social, political, environmental, and health-related consequences of conspiracy theories: Problems and potential solutions

Karen Douglas, Robbie Sutton, Daniel Jolley and Michael Wood

2015, Book Chapter in The Psychology of Conspiracy (pp. 183-200)

https://www.taylorfrancis.com/books/e/9781315746838/chapters/10.4324/9781315746838-18

Citations: > 66 (Google Scholar)

Altmetric Score: > 23

Abstract: Once they have reached public awareness, unfounded conspiracy allegations may be a powerful source of influence, swaying people's attitudes, intentions, and behaviors, with potentially damaging consequences not only for individuals, but also for the broader society. In the case of vaccination, it only takes a small number of refusals to compromise herd immunity and see the return of diseases long thought to have been eliminated. In this chapter, we explore the potential consequences of conspiracy theories such as this in some detail, focusing on the potential effects of social, political, and health-related conspiracy theories on people's attitudes, intentions, and behaviors. We then outline the existing research in this area and outline some suggestions that have been made by scholars for dealing with the influence of conspiracy theories. Finally, we make some suggestions for future research.

The effects of anti-vaccine conspiracy theories on vaccination intentions

Daniel Jolley and Karen Douglas

2014, PLoS ONE (IF: 3.752, Q1)

https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0089177 (open access)

Citations: > 1234 (Google Scholar)

Altmetric Score: > 779

Abstract: The current studies investigated the potential impact of anti-vaccine conspiracy beliefs, and exposure to anti-vaccine conspiracy theories, on vaccination intentions. In Study 1, British parents completed a questionnaire measuring beliefs in anti-vaccine conspiracy theories and the likelihood that they would have a fictitious child vaccinated. Results revealed a significant negative relationship between anti-vaccine conspiracy beliefs and vaccination intentions. This effect was mediated by the perceived dangers of vaccines, and feelings of powerlessness, disillusionment and mistrust in authorities. In Study 2, participants were exposed to information that either supported or refuted anti-vaccine conspiracy theories, or a control condition. Results revealed that participants who had been exposed to material supporting anti-vaccine conspiracy theories showed less intention to vaccinate than those in the anti-conspiracy condition or controls. This effect was mediated by the same variables as in Study 1. These findings point to the potentially detrimental consequences of anti-vaccine conspiracy theories, and highlight their potential role in shaping health-related behaviors.

The social consequences of conspiracism: Exposure to conspiracy theories decreases intentions to engage in politics and to reduce one's carbon footprint

Daniel Jolley and Karen Douglas

2014, British Journal of Psychology (IF: 4.981, Q1)

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/bjop.12018

You can access an open copy here.

Citations: > 699 (Google Scholar)

Altmetric Score: > 209

Abstract: The current studies explored the social consequences of exposure to conspiracy theories. In Study 1, participants were exposed to a range of conspiracy theories concerning government involvement in significant events such as the death of Diana, Princess of Wales. Results revealed that exposure to information supporting conspiracy theories reduced participants' intentions to engage in politics, relative to participants who were given information refuting conspiracy theories. This effect was mediated by feelings of political powerlessness. In Study 2, participants were exposed to conspiracy theories concerning the issue of climate change. Results revealed that exposure to information supporting the conspiracy theories reduced participants' intentions to reduce their carbon footprint, relative to participants who were given refuting information, or those in a control condition. This effect was mediated by powerlessness with respect to climate change, uncertainty, and disillusionment. Exposure to climate change conspiracy theories also influenced political intentions, an effect mediated by political powerlessness. The current findings suggest that conspiracy theories may have potentially significant social consequences, and highlight the need for further research on the social psychology of conspiracism.