COVID-19-related conspiracy beliefs and their determinants among 18 to 45 years old: A cross-sectional study

The existence of conspiracy beliefs has been previously linked to multiple individual traits and factors, such as anxiety, lack of information, education, and social factors. This study aims to explore the factors and variables influencing the individual’s susceptibility to conspiratorial thinking, as well as the impact of COVID-19 conspiracy belief on the adoption of public health and social measures. This study explores the factors influencing the susceptibility to conspiratorial thinking and the impact of conspiracy theories on the adoption of public health and social measures. A sample of university students, fresh-graduates, and mid-career professionals between the age of 18 to 45 years old completed an online survey measuring COVID-19 conspiracy beliefs and stress levels. A total of 2417 completed a survey targeting COVID-19 conspiracy beliefs, perceived stress, and demographic information. The results show that COVID-19 conspiracy beliefs were related to education, unemployment, and COVID-19 level of exposure. Meanwhile, conspiracy beliefs had no relation to the individual’s perceived self-reported stress. Higher conspiracy scores were related to lower adoption of preventive measures and increased hesitancy towards COVID-19 vaccination. Lack of knowledge and misinformation actions play a vital role in the generation of conspiracy theories surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic.