Twenty-five years after the September 11 attacks, conspiracy theories about the events continue to exist. Psychologists suggest that while these theories may help some individuals make sense of a tragedy, the benefits of believing in them are often short-lived.
Researching the psychology of conspiracy theories is complex, as it relies on individuals' self-awareness. Neil Dagnall, a professor of psychology at Manchester Metropolitan University, noted in an interview with Deutsche Welle that self-reporting is a common method for measuring beliefs in conspiracy theories, but it has limitations. Self-report data can be subjective and influenced by various factors, making it challenging to derive definitive conclusions.
Dagnall explained that people's responses to questions about their beliefs can vary based on their social context and personal experiences. This suggests that self-report data may indicate correlations rather than causation.
In a study co-authored by Dagnall and published in May 2026, the limitations of self-report data were highlighted, complicating the assessment of whether belief in conspiracy theories is beneficial or detrimental to individuals' well-being. Many who believe in conspiracy theories may already have a distorted view of reality.
Psychologists employ various methods to obtain more objective measures of emotional and psychological states, such as behavioral observations and retesting self-reported data over time. However, Dagnall pointed out that belief in conspiracy theories is more common than often acknowledged, suggesting that questioning accepted narratives can be a sign of a healthy, inquisitive mindset.
There are instances where conspiracy theories have prompted investigations that uncovered governmental corruption, such as the Partygate scandal during the COVID pandemic in the UK and the Watergate scandal in the United States. Conversely, some conspiracy theories, like the belief that the moon landing was faked, can be viewed humorously or seriously.
Dagnall emphasized that the impact of conspiracy theories on daily life varies among individuals. While some may not find them disruptive, others may experience negative emotions and heightened anxiety as a result of their beliefs. Zuzanna Molenda, a researcher at the Polish Academy of Sciences, stated that exposure to conspiracy theories can lead to emotional dysregulation and increased distress.
Molenda noted that while conspiracy beliefs can provide temporary explanations and a sense of belonging, they do not necessarily lead to improved long-term well-being. Ultimately, individuals seek meaning and purpose in life, and if their search leads to more uncertainty and anxiety, it can be detrimental. Dagnall concluded that those who believe in conspiracies often seek answers but may not find satisfactory ones.