Proposing a Conceptual Model of the Drivers and Inhibitors of Conspiracy Beliefs in Iranian Public Organizations
Keywords:
conspiracy belief, public organizations, political behavior, thematic analysis, conceptual modelAbstract
Conspiracy belief in public organizations refers to the perception that others are secretly and malevolently acting against one’s interests. This phenomenon can lead to reduced collaboration, organizational isolation, lack of transparency, and inefficiency in responding to societal needs. The purpose of this study was to propose a conceptual model of the drivers and inhibitors of conspiracy belief in Iranian public organizations. A qualitative research design based on thematic analysis was employed. Data were collected through 15 in-depth semi-structured interviews with experts in management, human resources, social sciences, sociology, and psychology. Data analysis followed Braun and Clarke’s six-phase approach and resulted in 157 initial codes, 18 components, and six main dimensions. To ensure validity, member checking and meticulous documentation of the research process were conducted. Reliability was assessed using the inter-coder agreement method, yielding 82.4%. Findings revealed that individual psychological factors (need for control, anxiety level, confirmation bias), socio-cultural factors (cultural norms, group belonging, social polarization), political-institutional factors (centralization of power, perceived corruption), informational-media factors (organizational rumors, information restrictions), economic factors (resource scarcity, economic inequality), and organizational-managerial factors (authoritarian leadership, work pressure) act as key drivers of conspiracy belief. Conversely, inhibitors such as tolerance of ambiguity, social trust, organizational transparency, critical thinking, job security, and participative leadership can reduce this phenomenon. The proposed model provides a comprehensive framework for managing conspiracy beliefs and improving the performance of public organizations.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Hosein Heidari Ardi , Reza Verij Kazemi, Davood Kia Kojouri (Author)
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