There are so many things for us to be concerned about as parents when our children start to spend more time online, especially on social media. One issue that can become a challenge is how to navigate the realm of conspiracy theories with our kids. While this doesn’t tend to be an issue in the younger years, as children become preteens and teens it’s important to have on our radar.
Addressing this issue with a focus on understanding why kids more easily fall prey to conspiracy theories, and how to approach them sensitively and through a lens of critical thinking, can help ensure that parent-child relationships aren’t damaged and kids learn to evaluate the information they consume online in healthier ways.
How are conspiracy theories spread online?
The internet has made it incredibly easy for anyone to share information online, regardless of its validity. While in some ways this is an incredible benefit, it has also paved the way for the rampant spread of misinformation and conspiracy theories. The very nature of the internet and social media, where algorithms often prioritize sensational content, fosters an environment in which conspiracy theories can flourish.
Research shows that social media use is of particular concern when it comes to the spread of misinformation and conspiracies. Conspiracy theories often gain traction through social media platforms, chat rooms, and online forums. These platforms, which incorporate the powerful combination of relationships, emotion, and information, can facilitate the rapid dissemination of theories that are not based in fact.
People who are already inclined to believe in conspiracies, including children and adolescents, may find communities that validate their beliefs, reinforcing their convictions.
Why might young people believe a certain conspiracy theory?
Understanding why young people may be drawn to conspiracy theories is crucial for parents aiming to engage in constructive dialogues. New survey data shows that more teens believe conspiracy theories than other age groups. In fact, 60-70% of adolescents endorse one or more conspiracy theories, compared to approximately 49% of adults. Why might this be? It really comes down to what’s happening during the developmental stage of adolescence.
Adolescence is a period of identity formation, and individuals at this stage often seek out sources of meaning and purpose. Conspiracy theories can provide a sense of belonging and purpose for some young people. It’s also a stage marked by pushing back against what parents and other adults think, as teens try to establish themselves as individuals apart from their parents.
Conspiracy theories can be attractive because they offer simple explanations for complex events or phenomena. They make people think that they’re part of an exclusive “club” or enlightened minority – being “in the know” about hidden truths that the rest of society is unaware of. This sense of exclusivity can be particularly appealing to adolescents searching for their place in the world.
In addition, cognitive biases such as confirmation bias and the illusory pattern perception can play a significant role in the acceptance of conspiracy theories. This is true for teens and adults. Confirmation bias leads individuals to seek out information that confirms their existing beliefs, while the illusory pattern perception causes people to perceive meaningful connections between unrelated events. Because teens do not yet have fully formed pre-frontal cortexes in their brain, it’s easier for them to fall into the traps of these biases.
Why is conspiracy theory content popular online?
Conspiracy theories have become prevalent online for several reasons. First, the anonymity provided by the internet allows individuals to express beliefs without fear of social consequences. This anonymity can embolden those who might otherwise be hesitant to spread questionable or problematic information.
Second, the algorithms that power social media platforms are designed to maximize user engagement. They do this by showing users content that aligns with their existing beliefs and interests. This algorithmic approach unintentionally reinforces echo chambers where conspiracy theories can thrive, as users are continuously exposed to content that reaffirms their beliefs.
Finally, conspiracy theories often tap into powerful emotions, such as fear and anger, which can lead to heightened emotional responses and increased sharing of the content. When a piece of conspiracy theory content triggers a strong emotional reaction, individuals are more likely to spread it through shares, likes, and comments, thus amplifying its reach. During the teen years kids are more emotion-driven than logic driven, which can make this type of content even more appealing.
Talking to your child about conspiracy theories: Ideas for parents
While all of this can seem alarming and overwhelming, there are some simple and practical things we can do as parents to address concerns about our kids and conspiracy theories. Engaging your child in a meaningful conversation around this topic is a critical starting point, and requires a sensitive and empathetic approach.
When kids, especially teens, feel like we are telling them what to think or not to think, we won’t get very far. Instead, we want to take an approach focused on awareness and the development of critical thinking skills.
Here are some ideas for parents to consider:
1. Open dialogue: Create a safe space for open dialogue where your child feels comfortable discussing their beliefs and concerns without fear of judgment. Listen actively to what they have to say.
2. Teach critical thinking: Encourage critical thinking skills by asking questions that prompt your child to evaluate the credibility of sources, examine evidence, and consider alternative viewpoints. Model this by sharing your thoughts on an article or other piece of information you consumed, so they can see the critical thinking process in action.
3. Media literacy: Teach your child about media literacy and how to spot “fake news”. Help them understand the difference between reliable sources and misinformation. Emphasize the importance of fact-checking and cross-referencing information by looking at a variety of sources.
4. Empathy: Foster empathy by encouraging your child to consider the potential consequences of sharing and promoting things they see online. Discuss the impact of misinformation on individuals and society.
5. Respectful disagreement: Model respectful disagreement by engaging in civil discussions if you have differing views. Demonstrate that it’s possible to have differing opinions while maintaining a respectful and constructive conversation. This is important to model in your communication with other adults as well. Kids see how we interact with others, and it’s often a more powerful lesson than the dialogue we have directly with them.
6. Encourage diverse perspectives: Encourage your child to explore a variety of perspectives and worldviews. Exposure to diverse viewpoints can help them develop a broader understanding of complex issues.
7. Monitor online activity: Keep an eye on your child’s online activity, but do so transparently. Sit down periodically to look together at what sites they are visiting and the kinds of information they are consuming online. Ensure they are aware of the potential risks associated with certain online platforms and communities. Utilize a parental control solution, such as Qustodio, to more easily monitor and support your children online.
What to do if you disagree with your child’s view
It’s not uncommon for parents to find themselves at odds with their child’s beliefs, especially during the adolescent years. Here are some guidelines for managing this issue:
Stay calm
Maintain composure and avoid reacting with anger or frustration. Emotional reactions can push your child further away.
Seek common ground
Find common ground where you can agree, even if it’s on smaller aspects of the topic. Building on commonalities can provide a foundation for constructive dialogue over time.
Ask questions
Instead of imposing your views, ask questions that encourage your child to reflect on their beliefs. This can help them consider and reevaluate their stance.
Share reliable information
Provide reliable information and resources that counter the conspiracy theory. Be sure to offer sources that are credible and well-regarded.
Be patient
Changing beliefs, especially emotionally-charged ones, takes time. Be patient and understanding as your child navigates the process of figuring out what they believe and where they stand on issues. Remember that some of this is a typical part of the teen years, and with growth and development over time their understanding of issues and opinions on them will naturally shift.
While it can feel overwhelming to have one more thing to focus on as a parent, addressing online conspiracy theories with your child is a part of the deal in today’s world. By fostering open dialogue, teaching critical thinking skills, and promoting media literacy, you can equip your child to navigate the digital landscape in a more discerning way.
Remember that your role as a parent is not to dictate beliefs but to guide your child toward responsible and informed decision-making. Through empathy, patience, and understanding, you can help your child develop the tools they need to navigate the complex world of online information and make informed choices.
