The Psychology of Conspiracy Theories

Presenter: Dr. Will Hafford, Psy.D. Original air date: September 17, 2021 CEs: 2 The APA estimates that about 50% of Americans believe in at least one disproven conspiracy theory. The overlap between our mind's ability to make meaning and our deep need for security and belonging predispose us to conspiratorial thought patterns. Join us for an exploration of fascinating cognitive and personality factors, an examination of impacts to clients and their relationships, as well as a conversation about implications for treatment. BYO tinfoil hat. Dr. Hafford is a clinical psychologist in private practice with offices in Hampden and Belfast, Maine. Since 2019, he has served as coordinator for Bangor Area Psychological Society (BAPS), facilitating monthly learning and CE opportunities for local colleagues around a variety of psychology topics. Dr. Hafford is a recovering academician, previously working for seven years as an Associate Professor of Psychology at the undergraduate level prior to making the jump to full time clinical work in 2020. He continues to supervise doctoral and graduate research dissertations and periodically teaches courses around outdoor behavioral healthcare and climate change psychology. In his free time, he enjoys reading The Catcher in the Rye, foiling elaborate plots by shadowy worldwide syndicates, and long walks on the beach.