Who Lives Inside Your Brain? The Disturbing Psychology of Conspiracy Theories and Parasocial Relationships with Anna Kitko

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Why are millions of people forming deep emotional attachments to celebrities, influencers, and online personalities they’ve never met? And why do some online figures inspire such fierce loyalty that followers will defend their claims, adopt their worldview, and trust their conclusions—often without any scrutiny or independent investigation?

Frank sits down with spiritual abuse counselor and Ratio Christi leader, Anna Kitko, to investigate the hidden psychology behind parasocial relationships, conspiracy theories, and the digital voices competing for our trust. Together, they unpack how social media exploits our need for belonging and how seemingly harmless online habits can quietly shape the way we see reality. In this episode, you’ll discover:

Why is Anna uniquely qualified to talk about this topic?

What happens in the brain when we form emotional attachments to celebrities and social media influencers?

What are parasocial relationships and why do they feel so real?

How does social media contribute to the spread of conspiracy theories and online echo chambers?

Why are loneliness and isolation making people more susceptible to manipulation, false beliefs, and paranoia?

What practical habits can help protect our minds from unchecked anxiety and paranoia?

What’s the connection between parasocial interactions and pornography?

What is the “smoke detector principle” and how can it help us distinguish legitimate concerns from irrational fears?

In a world where algorithms compete for your trust and attention, understanding the psychology behind influence has never been more important. Join Frank and Anna for a fascinating conversation and stay tuned for next week’s episode to see and hear highlights from Frank’s recent tour in Washington D.C. with Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, Mike Johnson!

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Resources mentioned during the episode:

Donate to CrossExamined
beEmboldened Ministries
Connect with Anna through Ratio Christi
Anna’s YouTube channel
beEmboldened YouTube videos
Univ. of Tenn Q&A with Alisa Childers & Anna Kitko