New research has shown that people who experience bullying in the workplace are more likely to engage in conspiracy theorizing.
New research has shown that people who experience bullying in the workplace are more likely to engage in conspiracy theorizing.
The new research, led by the University of Nottingham and in collaboration with the Paris Nanterre University, built on the idea that experiences of bullying may breed conspiracy beliefs because both are associated with similar psychological factors, such as feelings of paranoia. The results have been published today in Social Psychology.
Conspiracy theories are defined as “explanations for important events that involve secret plots by powerful and malevolent groups,” from scientists and doctors to the boss in the workplace. This new study builds on previous research that has shown life experience can increase susceptibility to conspiracy theories and explores the theory that hostile workplace experiences could be linked to the development of conspiracy beliefs.
