Development of the Japanese Version of the Generic Conspiracist Beliefs Scale (GCBS‐J)

Abstract

AbstractGeneric conspiracist belief refers to the general tendency toward conspiracist ideation independent of specific event‐based conspiracy theories. The present research aimed to develop a Japanese version of the Generic Conspiracist Beliefs Scale (GCBS‐J). In two studies, we examined the factor structure, reliability, and convergent and discriminant validity of the GCBS‐J. In Study 1 (N = 600), exploratory factor analysis with a split‐half subsample proposed a two‐factor solution dissociating extraterrestrial conspiracy from other conspiracist ideations. Subsequent confirmatory factor analysis with the other split‐half subsample confirmed the two‐factor structure. Study 1 also established convergent validity by indicating strong positive correlations with other measures of conspiracist belief. Study 2 (N = 178) added further evidence to indicate a positive correlation with related psychological constructs, such as paranormal beliefs. Study 2 also confirmed temporal test–retest reliability and the discriminant validity of the GCBS‐J by indicating no association with an unrelated construct, namely Big‐Five personality traits. These findings suggest that the GCBS‐J is a useful tool for assessing generic conspiracist beliefs within Japanese samples.