Poor Sleep Linked to Increased Belief in Conspiracy Theories

A recent study conducted by the University of Nottingham’s School of Psychology suggests a concerning link between poor sleep quality and an increased susceptibility to embracing conspiracy theories. While the negative impacts of inadequate sleep on physical and mental health are well-documented, this research sheds light on an additional consequence: a heightened tendency to believe in patently false conspiracies.

The research involved over 1,000 volunteers and was published in the Journal of Health Psychology. It revealed that individuals with poor sleep quality, particularly when compounded by conditions like depression, are more likely to entertain conspiracy theories. Furthermore, exposure to external conspiratorial content exacerbates this susceptibility, compared to forming such beliefs independently.

In one experiment, participants were assessed for sleep quality before being presented with articles about the 2019 Notre Dame Cathedral fire, with some reading accurate accounts and others encountering a false narrative involving a cover-up conspiracy. Those with poorer sleep quality demonstrated a greater inclination to believe in the unfounded conspiracy surrounding the tragic event.

A subsequent phase of the study examined the psychological profiles of additional participants, confirming a direct correlation between a tendency towards conspiracy theories and issues like poor sleep and insomnia, often rooted in underlying conditions such as depression. Daniel Jolley, the lead researcher, emphasized the critical role of sleep in mental health and cognitive function, noting that poor sleep can heighten the risk of depression, anxiety, and paranoia—factors that contribute to embracing conspiracy beliefs.

The implications of subscribing to conspiracy theories extend beyond individual beliefs, impacting societal resilience against critical issues. For instance, distrust in scientifically supported information on vaccine efficacy can undermine public health efforts, while misinformation on climate change hampers necessary actions to address environmental risks. Moreover, beliefs in stolen election conspiracies have led to tragic outcomes.

Despite the challenges in dispelling conspiracy mindsets once adopted, the study suggests that improving sleep quality could serve as a protective factor against falling prey to conspiratorial thinking. By maintaining critical thinking skills and ensuring adequate rest, individuals can potentially guard against the allure of misinformation.

In a world increasingly inundated with false narratives, fostering a culture of rational skepticism and prioritizing quality sleep may offer a defense against the allure of conspiracy theories. So, the next time you encounter an outlandish conspiracy theory, perhaps the best course of action is to take a step back, get a good night’s sleep, and approach the information with a clear mind.