Dealing with Conspiracy Narratives in the Close Social Environment: A Practical Handbook to Help the Helpers

Description:

This practical handbook provides frontline practitioners and helpers with background knowledge on how conspiracy narratives function psychologically and socially, and with evidence‑based strategies for engaging with people in their close social environments (families, friends, communities) who hold such narratives. The guide outlines why conspiracy narratives can take hold, how they may relate to broader polarisation and extremist trends, and presents concrete communication approaches to support respectful dialogue, reduce cognitive resistance, and foster critical thinking without alienating the individual. It also summarises a related toolkit produced by RAN Practitioners in 2023 that aids helpers in approaching these conversations constructively.

Link:

Read the document

Language:

English

Date:

27.02.2026

Proposed by:

PPHS

Source:

Radicalisation Awareness Network (RAN), 2023