In our extremely online society, it can be puzzling, challenging, and devastating to realize a loved one has fallen into the conspiracy rabbithole. Too often, we have seen families broken up by online conspiracy theories, which can become an obsession. Conspiracy theories can affect people of any age, race, sex, gender, or political orientation. If you’re feeling hopeless about your conspiracist friend or family member, you are not alone.

For families and friends of conspiracy theorists, it can be extremely frustrating to talk about. Conspiracy theorists can easily become obsessed with their theories, trying to recruit others to the cause. They may express outrage at your incredulity about their theories. They may use complicated tactics they have learned online to convince you to believe. Having honest and empathetic conversations can go a long way toward potentially de-radicalizing friends and family or, at the very least, maintaining relationships. This toolkit is meant to provide some scripts and resources for having those challenging conversations and provides some tips about what not to do.