PSYCHOMETRIC PROPERTIES OF THE SHORT VERSION OF GENERIC CONSPIRACIST BELIEFS SCALE (GCB-15) TRANSLATED IN MACEDONIAN LANGUAGE

Abstract

This research evaluates the psychometric characteristics of the short version
of Generic Conspiracist Beliefs scale (GCB-15) translated in Macedonian language.
A convenient online sample of 615 ethnic Macedonians (53.2% women, average age
M=30.6; SD=20.4) from 18 cities participated voluntarily in the data gathering process.
The translation process involved two independent interpretations, a back-translation,
and consensus discussions.
The mean scores for GCB-15 subscales were higher compared to other studies,
possibly indicating elevated conspiracist beliefs in this population. The results from
the exploratory factor analysis suggested a two-factor structure, distinguishing general
conspiracist ideation and extraterrestrial beliefs. The confirmatory factor analysis
supported this model over one- or five-factor structures. The Cronbach Alpha indices
indicated acceptable internal consistency of all subscales (from α=.61 to α=.80) and very
high one for the overall scale (α=.91). Convergent validity was confirmed by examining
correlations with conspiracist mentality and populist attitudes, while discriminant validity
was demonstrated by non-association with emotional intelligence. Criterion-based
validity was confirmed by predicting belief in COVID-19 conspiracy theory, whereas
known groups’ validity showed differences in GCB based on education, economic status,
and life satisfaction, however, the hypotheses were supported only partially. In conclusion,
the GCB-15 translated in Macedonian proves to be a valuable instrument for
studying conspiracist beliefs in this cultural context, offering additional support for its
effectiveness across various cultures.