There are two main components of the relationship between the social integration motivation and conspiracy theory endorsement. On one hand, being isolated tends to increase one's tendency to believe in conspiracies. This is because isolation leads to increased anxiety and a desire to simplify the world. Contrarily, belonging to a specific group can increase one's likelihood perceive social threats to one's group. These threats can be depicted in conspiracy theories, and group members may be inclined to believe them. 

Relationship Between the Social Integration Motivation and Conspiracy Theory Endorsement

the goal is to get along with and be valued by other people

University of Michigan - Ann Arbor

- Knowledge 
- Ego-defense
- Social Integration

Why People May Believe Conspiracy Theories

Albarracín, D. (2021). Conspiracy beliefs: Knowledge, ego-defense, and social integration. In R. Greifeneder, M. Jaffé, E. J. Newman, & N. Schwarz (Eds.), *The psychology of fake news: Accepting, sharing, and correcting misinformation* (pp. 196–219). Routledge. https://doi.org/10.4324/9780429295379

Conspiracy Beliefs: Knowledge, Ego-Defense, and Social Integration

Social Integration Motivation

The goal to defend the self from unpleasant emotional feelings such as fear.

Ego-Defense Motivation 

The goal to form accurate and complete representations of the world.

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