The Surprising Link Between Sleep and Belief in Conspiracy Theories

Sleep Quality and Conspiracy Theories: What the Research Says

Have you ever wondered why some people believe in conspiracy theories, like the idea that the moon landing was faked? While these beliefs can seem baffling, researchers at the University of Nottingham have uncovered a surprising link between sleep quality and the likelihood of believing in far-fetched explanations for world events. A new study published in the Journal of Health Psychology found that people who experienced poor sleep or struggled with insomnia in the past month were more likely to embrace conspiracy theories. This groundbreaking research helps us understand how our mental and emotional well-being, influenced by something as fundamental as sleep, can shape our perceptions of reality.

The study involved over 1,100 participants in two separate experiments. In the first study, researchers presented participants with an article about the 2019 Notre Dame Cathedral fire in Paris, which destroyed the historic wooden spire. While the official investigation concluded that the fire was likely caused by an accidental event, such as a discarded cigarette or an electrical malfunction, the participants were divided into two groups. One group read the official explanation, while the other was presented with a conspiracy theory suggesting a deliberate cover-up. The results showed that those who reported poor sleep quality were more inclined to believe the conspiracy theory. This pattern was further confirmed in the second study, which found a consistent connection between sleep disturbances and belief in conspiracy theories.

The Role of Emotions in Shaping Beliefs

The study also revealed that emotional factors, such as depression, anger, and paranoia, play a significant role in the connection between poor sleep and belief in conspiracy theories. Dr. Daniel Jolley, a lead researcher on the project, explained that sleep is essential for maintaining mental health and cognitive function. When we don’t get enough sleep, our minds become more vulnerable to negative emotions like anxiety and paranoia, which are known contributors to conspiratorial thinking. In essence, poor sleep can create a mental environment where conspiracy theories seem more plausible.

“Sleep is crucial for mental health and cognitive functioning,” Dr. Jolley noted. “Poor sleep has been shown to increase the risk of depression, anxiety, and paranoia—factors that also contribute to conspiracy beliefs.” This suggests that improving sleep quality could not only enhance our overall well-being but also serve as a protective factor against the spread of conspiracy theories.

How Conspiracy Theories Appeal to People

Dr. Jolley has also explored other factors that make conspiracy theories appealing to some individuals. In a previous interview, he mentioned that people often turn to conspiracy theories as a way to make sense of a chaotic and unpredictable world. When we feel overwhelmed by complex events or uncertainties, conspiracy theories can provide a sense of clarity by assigning blame to a specific group or entity. This can be particularly comforting in situations where the truth is unclear or difficult to accept.

For example, the belief that the moon landing was faked might stem from a desire to explain why such a historic event seems too incredible or hard to believe. By attributing it to a deliberate hoax, some individuals may feel they have uncovered a hidden truth, which can be psychologically satisfying. However, this kind of thinking often overlooks the overwhelming evidence supporting the actual events and instead relies on unproven assumptions.

The Broader Implications of Poor Sleep

The study highlights the far-reaching consequences of poor sleep quality, which extends beyond just mental health. Sleep disturbances have been linked to a host of physical health problems, including diabetes, high blood pressure, inflammation, and excess visceral fat. Even mild sleep deprivation—such as losing an hour or two of sleep—can have noticeable effects on our mood, making us feel less happy and more anxious.

The findings of this research emphasize the importance of prioritizing sleep as a foundational aspect of our health. By addressing sleep issues, we may not only improve our physical and mental well-being but also strengthen our ability to think critically and resist the allure of conspiracy theories.

The Connection Between Bullying and Conspiracy Theories

Dr. Jolley has also conducted research on another factor linked to belief in conspiracy theories: bullying. In a 2022 study, he found that individuals who had been bullied were more likely to endorse conspiracy theories. This connection makes sense when we consider the emotional and psychological impact of bullying. Victims of bullying often experience heightened feelings of anxiety, paranoia, and mistrust, which can make them more susceptible to conspiratorial explanations of the world.

“The more negative acts a participant has suffered, the stronger their tendency to engage in conspiracy theorizing,” Dr. Jolley and his co-author, Anthony Lantian, wrote in an article for The Conversation. This highlights how life experiences, particularly those that evoke negative emotions, can shape our beliefs and perceptions.

The Power of Sleep in Combating Conspiracy Theories

The research from the University of Nottingham offers a hopeful solution to the problem of conspiracy theories: improving sleep quality. While it’s unlikely that better sleep alone will eradicate conspiratorial thinking, it represents a practical and achievable step toward fostering healthier mental habits. By addressing sleep disturbances, we can reduce the emotional and cognitive vulnerabilities that make conspiracy theories appealing.

In addition to prioritizing sleep, the findings encourage us to approach belief in conspiracy theories with compassion and understanding. Rather than dismissing those who believe in such theories as misinformed or irrational, we can recognize that their beliefs may be rooted in deeper emotional and psychological struggles. By addressing these underlying issues, we can create a society that is more resilient to misinformation and more capable of critical thinking.

In a world filled with uncertainty and complexity, it’s natural to seek explanations for events that seem inexplicable. However, by taking care of our sleep and mental health, we can equip ourselves with the tools needed to navigate the world more thoughtfully and objectively.