The “Need for Chaos” and Motivations to Share Hostile Political Rumors

Why are some people motivated to circulate hostile political information? While prior studies have focused on partisan motivations, we demonstrate that individuals rumors because they wish unleash chaos “burn down” the entire order in hope gain status process. To understand this psychology, theorize and measure a novel psychological state, Need for Chaos, emerging an interplay of social marginalization status-oriented personalities. Across eight living United States, show need is strong predictor motivations share rumors, even after accounting can help illuminate differences commonalities frustrations both historically privileged marginalized groups. stem tide hostility media, present findings suggest real-world policy solutions needed address States.