Apple News In Conversation Why our loved ones believe political conspiracy theories — and ways to repair the damage
Sep 12, 2024
Jesselyn Cook, author of The Quiet Damage: QAnon and the Destruction of the American Family, dives into the pervasive impact of conspiracy theories like QAnon on family dynamics. She discusses how these beliefs can transform individuals into unrecognizable versions of themselves, affecting relationships across the political spectrum. Cook shares personal stories, emphasizing the challenges families face when trying to reconnect with loved ones lost to radical ideologies and the role of misinformation, especially during election seasons. Her insights on navigating these complex scenarios are both eye-opening and essential.
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Emily's QAnon Descent
- Emily, a progressive lawyer, became a QAnon follower after her husband's suicide.
- Her children's attempts to reason with her using facts only worsened the situation.
Differing Family Responses
- Some family members distance themselves from QAnon relatives, while others try to intervene.
- Both approaches have potential for success, but it depends on whether the QAnon follower takes accountability.
Addressing Underlying Needs
- Avoid fact-checking, as QAnon followers aren't seeking truth but fulfilling a need.
- Address underlying needs like purpose and belonging instead of debunking misinformation.