JOURNAL ARTICLE

Cable News Use and Conspiracy Theories: Exploring Fox News, CNN, and MSNBC Effects on People's Conspiracy Mentality.

  • Published In: Journalism & Mass Communication Quarterly, 2024, v. 101, n. 4. P. 889 1 of 3

  • Database: Academic Search Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Gil de Zúñiga, Homero; Scheffauer, Rebecca; Zhang, Bingbing 3 of 3

Abstract

This article examines the relationship between exposure to U.S. cable news channels—Fox News, CNN, and MSNBC—and individuals’ general predisposition to believe in conspiracy theories, termed conspiracy mentality. Using nationally representative two-wave panel survey data and advanced statistical models, the study finds that only Fox News consumption is positively and causally associated with increased conspiracy mentality over time, independent of demographic factors, political interest, and partisanship strength. In contrast, exposure to CNN and MSNBC shows no significant effect on conspiracy mentality once controls are applied. The findings suggest that Fox News’ distinctive reporting style and framing may uniquely foster conspiratorial thinking across ideological lines, highlighting the influential role of partisan cable news in shaping public susceptibility to conspiracy theories.

Additional Information

  • Source:Journalism & Mass Communication Quarterly. 2024/12, Vol. 101, Issue 4, p889
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Biography
  • Publication Date:2024
  • ISSN:1077-6990
  • DOI:10.1177/10776990231171929
  • Accession Number:180966590
  • Copyright Statement:Copyright of Journalism & Mass Communication Quarterly is the property of Sage Publications Inc. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites without the copyright holder's express written permission. Additionally, content may not be used with any artificial intelligence tools or machine learning technologies. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

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