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The appraisal model of conspiracy theories (AMCT): Applying appraisal theories to understand emotional and behavioral reactions to conspiracy theories

Pummerer, Lotte, Gkinopoulos, Theofilos, Douglas, Karen, Jolley, Daniel, Sassenberg, Kai (2024) The appraisal model of conspiracy theories (AMCT): Applying appraisal theories to understand emotional and behavioral reactions to conspiracy theories. Psychological Inquiry, . ISSN 1047-840X. E-ISSN 1532-7965. (In press) (Access to this publication is currently restricted. You may be able to access a copy if URLs are provided) (KAR id:107696)

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Abstract

Beliefs in conspiracy theories are related to a diverse set of emotional and behavioral consequences. However, a theoretical model detailing when a conspiracy theory is more likely to elicit confrontation compared to withdrawal, indirect aggression or community-building is missing. We argue that appraisals provide the missing link between conspiracy beliefs and their consequences, proposing the Appraisal Model of Conspiracy Theories (AMCT). Based on appraisal theories of emotions, we outline how the focus on different features that vary between conspiracy theories and the situations in which they are embedded (i.e., focus on secrecy vs. gained knowledge; powerlessness vs. option of confrontation; harm to oneself vs. others) facilitate specific appraisals, resulting in different behavioral outcomes. We also outline how the AMCT helps to reconcile inconsistent research on conspiracy beliefs by providing better predictions about their emotional and behavioral consequences.

Item Type: Article
Uncontrolled keywords: conspiracy theories; emotion; appraisal theory; fear; anger; disgust; pride; schadenfreude
Subjects: B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology
Divisions: Divisions > Division of Human and Social Sciences > School of Psychology
Funders: European Research Council (https://ror.org/0472cxd90)
Depositing User: Karen Douglas
Date Deposited: 04 Nov 2024 02:44 UTC
Last Modified: 13 Nov 2024 09:49 UTC
Resource URI: https://kar.kent.ac.uk/id/eprint/107696 (The current URI for this page, for reference purposes)

University of Kent Author Information

Douglas, Karen.

Creator's ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0381-6924
CReDIT Contributor Roles:

Jolley, Daniel.

Creator's ORCID:
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