How To Handle A Young Person Who Is A Conspiracy Theorist?

Conspiracy theories can be a powerful tool for spreading falsehoods and causing harm to individuals. To help those who have fallen for these theories, it is essential to “pre-bunk” them before they spread. A leading expert in conspiracy theories offers advice on how to deal with them when they spread to your family.

Being open-minded starts with asking questions and listening, building understanding with the person. Listen carefully and avoid defending your own beliefs. Approaching someone spreading conspiracy theories involves making choices on how to engage them, such as talking to family members and friends who embrace conspiracy theories or pulling them out of conspiratorial rabbit holes. Constantly fact-checking conspiracy theories can harden the other side’s views or make people feel attacked.

Experts and r/ChangeMyView subreddit moderators offer 10 tips to debunk conspiracy theories convincingly and kindly. For instance, some children may find themselves torn between their parents’ conflicting world views, while others may be affected by conspiracy theories.

When a student in your history or social sciences class advances a conspiracy theory, it is important to realize that they are adolescents. Dismissing conspiracy theorists is not a productive way to tackle the issue. Instead, it is crucial to remain calm and provide support to those who have fallen for conspiracy theories.