How conspiracy beliefs undermine containment of the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

During the COVID-19 pandemic conspiracy theories about the origin or alleged harmlessness of the coronavirus have upsurged. Crises fuel such theories as these can satisfy the need for an explanation, certainty, and ultimately control. At the same time conspiracy belief is associated with reduced compliance with containment-related behavior (hygiene, physical distance) as well as increased self-centered prepping behavior.