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

Abstract

Beliefs in conspiracy theories are related to a diverse set of emotional and behavioral consequences. At the same time, a theoretical model detailing when a conspiracy theory is more likely to elicit confrontation rather than 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.

Citation

Pummerer, L., Gkinopoulos, T., Douglas, K., JOLLEY, D., & Sassenberg, K. (in press). The Appraisal Model of Conspiracy Theories (AMCT): Applying Appraisal Theories to Understand Emotional and Behavioral Reactions to Conspiracy Theories. Psychological Inquiry,

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Oct 28, 2024
• Deposit Date: Nov 8, 2024
• Journal: Psychological Inquiry
• Print ISSN: 1047-840X
• Electronic ISSN: 1532-7965
• Publisher: Routledge
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Keywords: Conspiracy theories; emotion; appraisal theory; fear; anger; disgust; pride; schadenfreude
• Public URL: https://nottingham-repository.worktribe.com/output/41553956
• Publisher URL: https://library.wur.nl/WebQuery/utbrowser/6977