Participant-Reported Impact of Conspiracy Beliefs on Intimate Relationships: A Qualitative Exploratory Case Study

Abstract

There is abundant research on the consequences of conspiracy theories in various domains, including mental health, social well-being, and climate change skepticism. However, research on the effects of conspiracy theories on interpersonal relationships is scarce, and research on the effects on romantic couples or intimate partners is almost nonexistent. Therefore, we conducted semi-structured interviews with 10 participants who reported that their intimate partners had held general beliefs about conspiracy theories since the start of the 2020 pandemic. Based on participants’ responses, we identified six themes. We arrived at the conclusion that, in participants’ perception, belief in conspiracy theories may act as a possible—though not established—cause of serious harm to relationships when one member of the couple holds them, with repercussions for both partners.