Determinants and consequences of belief in Islamophobic conspiracy theories among youth in India

Abstract Numerous Islamophobic conspiracy theories have emerged since 9/11; however, there is limited knowledge about the factors influencing young people's belief in Islamophobic conspiracy theories (ICTs) and their consequences. Study 1 aimed to bridge this gap by examining the motivational factors leading to beliefs in ICTs of young individuals in India, following motivational framework of conspiracy belief. The sample comprised 866 Indian youth in the age bracket of 18 to 29 years ( M = 22.5, SD = 3.75). The findings revealed that intergroup distrust is the most important predictor of beliefs in ICTs, followed by collective narcissism and religiosity. Guided by Intergroup Threat Theory, Study 2 aimed to experimentally test whether intergroup distrust predicted beliefs in ICTs among young individuals ( N = 401, aged 18 to 29, M = 22.37, SD = 3.43). Study 2 further aimed to test the relationship between intergroup distrust and support for exclusionary policies via beliefs in ICTs as a mediator. Participants under the intergroup distrust condition (compared to intergroup trust or control condition) reported significantly higher belief in ICTs, which in turn increased support for exclusionary policies. Together, these studies underscore the critical role of intergroup distrust in increasing beliefs in ICTs, offering valuable insights into the mechanisms underlying intergroup relations and support for exclusionary policies against Muslims.