Conspiracy theories, victim shaming, false accusations, and even bullhorns. Where does it stop?

In recent years, the rise of social media and digital platforms has significantly influenced public perception and response to missing persons cases. While these platforms can aid in spreading awareness and rallying support, they also foster environments where conspiracy theories thrive. Let’s discuss why the public gravitates towards conspiracy theories, the psychological factors at play, and how these narratives can overshadow the truth.

The Appeal of Conspiracy Theories

Conspiracy theories offer simple, often sensational explanations for complex, often tragic events. They provide a sense of control and understanding in situations that are inherently uncertain and distressing. When it comes to missing persons cases, this tendency is amplified.

One example is the case of Kiely Rodni. When Kiely went missing in 2022, various conspiracy theories quickly emerged. Country music singer Ryan Upchurch, with his substantial following on YouTube, propagated several outlandish theories, including questioning the legitimacy of her disappearance. Adventures With Purpose manufactured a fake story about a AAA driver encountering Kiely, and Ryan Upchurch went so far to say Kiely wasn’t real and the case was just a Gofundme scam being orchestrated by the family. These theories captivated many, despite being a lie, meant to bring attention to the liar.

Another high-profile case is that of Gabby Petito. After Brian Laundrie was found dead, conspiracy theorists went as far as to claim that he had an uncle who was a dental surgeon who reconstructed his face, allowing Brian to live happily out of the country. This was after Brian’s dead body was found in the reservoir.

Elizabeth Smart's case is another notable example. In 2002, Elizabeth was abducted from her home in Salt Lake City. The public and media were rife with theories about elaborate schemes and sinister plots behind her disappearance. However, Elizabeth was found nine months later, living just miles from her home with a homeless couple, Brian David Mitchell and Wanda Barzee. This case illustrates how the simplest explanations—abduction by someone nearby—can be overshadowed by more dramatic theories.

The Influence of Popular Influencers

Popular influencers play a significant role in shaping public perception. Their large followings and persuasive narratives can quickly turn speculation into perceived reality. Influencers like Ryan Upchurch thrive on the sensational, often prioritizing clicks and views over factual reporting. This drive for engagement can perpetuate misinformation and conspiracy theories.

Understanding Confirmation Bias

Confirmation bias is the tendency to search for, interpret, and remember information in a way that confirms one's preexisting beliefs. In the context of missing persons cases, confirmation bias can lead individuals to favor sensational, conspiratorial explanations over mundane realities. When people are exposed to information that supports their beliefs, they are more likely to accept it as true and dismiss evidence that contradicts it. This bias is prevalent in online communities, where echo chambers can reinforce and amplify these beliefs.

Research indicates that confirmation bias can significantly affect decision-making and belief formation. A study published in the "Journal of Experimental Psychology" found that people are more likely to seek out and remember information that supports their existing views, leading to polarized opinions and resistance to new information. This bias can create a feedback loop where conspiratorial beliefs are continually reinforced.

The Herd Mentality

Herd mentality, or the tendency for people to conform to the behaviors and beliefs of the group, plays a significant role in the propagation of conspiracy theories. Research shows that people are driven by a desire to fit in and gain approval from their peers. When a significant portion of a community embraces a conspiracy theory, others are likely to follow suit, even if the evidence points otherwise.

A study published in the "Journal of Consumer Research" found that individuals often conform to group opinions to avoid social isolation and gain acceptance. This desire for belonging can lead people to adopt beliefs and behaviors that they might not otherwise endorse, simply to feel part of a group. This phenomenon is particularly pronounced in online communities, where group dynamics can be more intense and immediate.

Society's Obsession with True Crime

The public's fascination with true crime plays a significant role in the persistence of conspiracy theories. True crime media often sensationalizes cases, focusing on dramatic elements and speculative theories to attract viewers and readers. This can create a distorted perception of reality, where the most outlandish explanations seem plausible.

Crime tourism and the lack of education about investigative processes also contribute to this phenomenon. People who are not well-versed in the nuances of criminal investigations are more likely to be swayed by compelling narratives, regardless of their factual accuracy. This can lead to a situation where sensationalism overrides skepticism, and conspiracy theories gain traction.

Conclusion

Conspiracy theories in missing persons cases often arise from a combination of psychological factors, media influence, and social dynamics. Understanding these elements can help us recognize the appeal of these theories and promote a more balanced and informed perspective. As investigators, it is crucial to navigate these challenges and focus on uncovering the truth, regardless of public perception. By doing so, we honor the memory of those who are missing and provide clarity and closure to their loved ones.