Why disinformation sticks 3/4

Confirmation bias and belief consistency

People are more likely to believe information that fits with what they already think or feel. This is called confirmation bias. When a false claim aligns with someone’s worldview—whether political, ideological, or cultural—it becomes more “sticky” and harder to let go of. In fact, trying to correct it can sometimes backfire, making people hold on to their original belief even more strongly.

“When misinformation is congruent with a person’s worldview, its retraction can ironically increase belief in the misinformation.”