Bending Over Backwards: Does Cognitive Flexibility Predict Conspiracist Beliefs?

Introduction: Previous literature has found that cognitive factors such as increased errors in reasoning, a low ability to think analytically, and a general lack of critical thinking skills have all been associated with increased levels of endorsement of conspiracist beliefs (Lantian et al., 2021; Pytlik et al., 2020; Swami et al., 2014). Cognitive flexibility refers to one's ability to adapt and maintain control in emotionally dynamic and complex situations. Though similar to the factors listed previously, cognitive flexibility has yet to be tested as a possible predictive factor of conspiracist beliefs. 

Method: 41 students at Georgia State University were recruited through SONA and asked to complete the CCFQ and GCBS through Qualtrics. 

Results: A simple linear regression was conducted. The results of the regression indicated the predictors explained .5% of the variance. It was found that average cognitive flexibility scores did not significantly predict overall conspiracist beliefs (β = -.71, p = .69). 

Conclusion: The analysis likely received a nonsignificant result due to the small participant pool. However, the directionality of the data indicates the possibility that the result could be significant in the predicted negative direction with a larger sample size. 

Discussion: This study has both empirical and real-world implications. If the data being collected supports the prediction that decreased cognitive flexibility is associated with an endorsement of conspiracist beliefs, then this study could lead to early detection of extremist individuals and groups. Conversely, if the data does not support the previously stated prediction, then this study could help the direction of anti-extremist work.