Belief in conspiracy theories: The predictive role of schizotypy, Machiavellianism, and primary psychopathy

PLoS One. 2019 Dec 3;14(12):e0225964. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0225964. eCollection 2019.

Abstract

A conspiracy theory refers to an alternative explanation of an event involving a conspirator plot organised by powerful people or organisations. Belief in conspiracy theories is related to negative societal outcomes such as poor medical decisions and a decrease in prosocial behaviour. Given these negative outcomes, researchers have explored predictors of belief in conspiracy theories in an attempt to understand and possibly manage these beliefs. In the current study, we explored the utility of personality in predicting belief in conspiracy theories. The aim of the current study was to explore the utility of the odd beliefs/magical thinking subtype of schizotypy, Machiavellianism, grandiose narcissism, vulnerable narcissism, primary psychopathy, and secondary psychopathy in predicting belief in conspiracy theories. Participants (N = 230; 44.7% male, 55.3% female) completed an anonymous, confidential online questionnaire which comprised demographics and measures of personality traits and belief in conspiracy theories. The total regression model indicated odd beliefs/magical thinking, trait Machiavellianism, and primary psychopathy were significant, positive predictors of belief in conspiracy theories. No other predictors reached significance. Results of the current study highlight individuals who might be more susceptible to believing conspiracy theories. Specifically, these results indicate that the individual more likely to believe in conspiracy theories may have unusual patterns of thinking and cognitions, be strategic and manipulative, and display interpersonal and affective deficits.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Disease Susceptibility*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Machiavellianism*
  • Male
  • Mental Disorders / etiology*
  • Mental Disorders / psychology*
  • Models, Theoretical*
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Young Adult

Grants and funding

Funding for publication of this manuscript was provided by Federation University Australia School of Health and Life Sciences. The funders had no role in study design, data collection and analysis, decision to publish, or preparation of the manuscript.