Associate Professor Matt Williams staff profile picture

Contact details +6492136117

Associate Professor Matt Williams BBS, GDipArts, MA, PhD

Associate Professor

Doctoral Mentor Supervisor
School of Psychology

My main research interests are:

  1. Misinformation and conspiracy theories. For example, what drives people to believe and spread misinformation? Why do people change their minds about conspiracy theories?
  2. Metapsychology and methodology. For example, how often do researchers make action recommendations that aren't warranted by their findings? How can we best detect insincere responses to surveys ("trolling")?

Professional

Contact details

  • Ph: +64 9 414 0800 x43117
    Location: 3.23, School of Psychology
    Campus: Auckland

Qualifications

  • Bachelor of Business Studies - Massey University (2006)
  • Graduate Diploma in Arts - Massey University (2007)
  • Master of Arts - Massey University (2010)
  • Doctor of Philosophy - Massey University (2016)

Certifications and Registrations

  • Licence, Mentor Supervisor, Massey University

Prizes and Awards

  • Massey University Research Medal 2022 - Early Career - Massey University (2022)
  • Massey University Vice-Chancellor's Doctoral Scholarship - Massey University (2010)
  • PhD placed on Massey University's Dean's List of Exceptional Theses for 2015. - Massey University (2015)

Research Expertise

Research Interests

My main research interests are:

  1. Misinformation and conspiracy theories. For example, what drives people to believe and spread misinformation? Why do people change their minds about conspiracy theories?
  2. Metapsychology and methodology. For example, how often do researchers make action recommendations that aren't warranted by their findings? How can we best detect insincere responses to surveys ("trolling")?

Thematics

21st Century Citizenship, Resource Development and Management, Health and Well-being

Area of Expertise

Field of research codes
Applied Statistics (010401):
Health, Clinical and Counselling Psychology (170106):
Mathematical Sciences (010000):
Personality, Abilities and Assessment (170109): Psychological Methodology, Design and Analysis (170110): Psychology (170100): Psychology And Cognitive Sciences (170000): Social and Community Psychology (170113):
Statistics (010400)

Keywords

Climate change, conspiracy theories, misinformation, statistics, metapsychology.

Research Outputs

Journal

McMurtrie, B., Roemer, A., Philipp, M., Hebden, R., & Williams, M. (2025). Political Polarization and Wellbeing: Investigating Potential Intrapersonal Harm From Affective Polarization. International Review of Social Psychology. 38(1), Retrieved from https://rips-irsp.com/articles/10.5334/irsp.1052
[Journal article]Authored by: Hebden, R., McMurtrie, B., Roemer, A., Williams, M.
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Fox, ND., Williams, MN., & Hill, SR. (2025). Do Stress, Depression, and Anxiety Lead to Beliefs in Conspiracy Theories?. Clinical Psychological Science.
[Journal article]Authored by: Hill, S., Williams, M.
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Henry, NIN., Pedersen, M., Williams, M., Martin, JLB., & Donkin, L. (2025). Reducing echo chamber effects: An allostatic regulator for recommendation algorithms. Journal of Psychology and AI. 1(1), Retrieved from http://tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/29974100.2025.2517191
[Journal article]Authored by: Williams, M.
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Henry, NIN., Pedersen, M., Williams, M., & Donkin, L. (2025). Quantifying Opponent Process Dynamics in Pornography Use and Masturbation: An Exploratory Ecological Momentary Assessment Study. Archives of Sexual Behavior. 54(9), 3313-3334
[Journal article]Authored by: Williams, M.
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Clarke, EJR., Eckerle, F., Kerr, JR., Hill, SR., Ling, M., Marques, MD., . . . Williams, MN. (2025). Extremism at the center: Uncovering political diversity among midpoint responders on the left–right self-placement item. Political Psychology.
[Journal article]Authored by: Hill, S., Williams, M.
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Henry, NIN., Pedersen, M., Williams, M., Martin, JLB., & Donkin, L. (2025). A Hormetic Approach to the Value-Loading Problem: Preventing the Paperclip Apocalypse. SN Computer Science. 6(7)
[Journal article]Authored by: Williams, M.
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Faulkner, JW., Snell, D., Theadom, A., Siegert, RJ., Nielsen, K., & Williams, MN. (2025). Identifying the Bridges Between Post Concussion Symptoms and Psychological Distress in Mild Traumatic Brain Injury Using Network Analysis. Journal of Head Trauma Rehabilitation.
[Journal article]Authored by: Williams, M.
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Doyle, EEH., Thompson, J., Hill, SR., Williams, M., Paton, D., Harrison, SE., . . . Becker, JS. (2025). Communicating natural hazards science advice: Understanding scientists', decision-makers’, and the public's perceptions of the scientific process. International Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction. 128
[Journal article]Authored by: Becker, J., Hill, S., Hudson-Doyle, E., Williams, M.
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Neville, CM., & Williams, MN. (2025). Does Truth Pay? Investigating the Effectiveness of the Bayesian Truth Serum With an Interim Payment: A Registered Report. Advances in Methods and Practices in Psychological Science. 8(3)
[Journal article]Authored by: Williams, M.
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Williams, MN., Marques, MD., Kerr, JR., Hill, SR., Ling, M., & Clarke, EJR. (2025). Does Developing a Belief in One Conspiracy Theory Lead a Person to be More Likely to Believe in Others?. European Journal of Social Psychology. Early View, Retrieved from https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ejsp.3153
[Journal article]Authored by: Hill, S., Williams, M.
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Faulkner, J., Prouty, D., Devlin, L., Appleton, D., Roche, M., Below, K., . . . Theadom, A. (2025). Acceptance and commitment therapy for mild traumatic brain injury (ACTion-mTBI): a quasiexperimental feasibility study. BMJ Open. 15(2)
[Journal article]Authored by: Williams, M.
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1
McLean, T., Williams, M., & Stephens, C. (2025). How did the depression and anxiety levels of older New Zealanders change during the COVID-19 pandemic?. Psychology Health and Medicine. 30(2), 209-220
[Journal article]Authored by: Stephens, C., Williams, M.
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Valdes, EA., Liu, JH., Williams, M., & Carr, SC. (2025). A cross-cultural test of competing hypotheses about system justification using data from 42 nations. Political Psychology. 46(4), 822-846
[Journal article]Authored by: Carr, S., Valdes, E., Williams, M.
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4
Birchall, M., Drummond, A., & Williams, MN. (2025). Antecedents of bullying victimisation in adolescents: a fresh look at Aotearoa New Zealand. Kotuitui. 20(4), 528-541
[Journal article]Authored by: Williams, M.
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McMurtrie, B., Philipp, M., Hebden, R., & Williams, M. (2024). Development and Validation of the Affective Polarization Scale. International Review of Social Psychology. 37(1), 1-16
[Journal article]Authored by: Hebden, R., McMurtrie, B., Williams, M.
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1
Doyle, EEH., Thompson, J., Hill, SR., Williams, M., Paton, D., Harrison, SE., . . . Becker, JS. (2024). Differences in perceived sources of uncertainty in natural hazards science advice: lessons for cross-disciplinary communication. Frontiers in Communication. 9
[Journal article]Authored by: Becker, J., Hill, S., Hudson-Doyle, E., Williams, M.
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2
Fox, N., & Williams, M. (2024). Do stress and anxiety lead to belief in conspiracy theories? [version 2; peer review: 6 approved, 1 approved with reservations]. Routledge Open Research. 2(30), Retrieved from https://routledgeopenresearch.org/articles/2-30
[Journal article]Authored by: Williams, M.
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Williams, MN., Ling, M., Kerr, JR., Hill, SR., Marques, MD., Mawson, H., . . . Clarke, EJR. (2024). People do change their beliefs about conspiracy theories—but not often. Scientific Reports. 14(1)
[Journal article]Authored by: Hill, S., Williams, M.
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13
Doyle, EEH., Thompson, J., Hill, S., Williams, M., Paton, D., Harrison, S., . . . Becker, J. (2023). Where does scientific uncertainty come from, and from whom? Mapping perspectives of natural hazards science advice. International Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction. 96
[Journal article]Authored by: Becker, J., Hill, S., Hudson-Doyle, E., Williams, M.
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8
Garea, SS., Sauer, JD., Hall, LC., Williams, MN., & Drummond, A. (2023). The potential relationship between loot box spending, problem gambling, and obsessive-compulsive gamers. Journal of Behavioral Addictions. 12(3), 733-743
[Journal article]Authored by: Garea, S., Williams, M.
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8
Faulkner, JW., Theadom, A., Snell, DL., & Williams, MN. (2023). Network analysis applied to post-concussion symptoms in two mild traumatic brain injury samples. Frontiers in Neurology. 14
[Journal article]Authored by: Williams, M.
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7
Henry, N., Pedersen, M., Williams, M., & Donkin, L. (2023). Behavioral Posology: A Novel Paradigm for Modeling the Healthy Limits of Behaviors. Advanced Theory and Simulations. 6(9)
[Journal article]Authored by: Williams, M.
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2
Gibson, C., Williams, M., Ross, K., & de Vries, N. (2023). Distress, self-efficacy, feeling informed and the Babble app: A New Zealand neonatal parent sample. Journal of Neonatal Nursing. 29(2), 273-277
[Journal article]Authored by: Ross, K., Williams, M.
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2
Henry, N., Donkin, L., Williams, M., & Pedersen, M. (2022). mHealth Technologies for Managing Problematic Pornography Use: Content Analysis. Jmir Formative Research. 6(10)
[Journal article]Authored by: Williams, M.
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5
Valdes, EA., Liu, JH., & Williams, M. (2023). Testing the status-legitimacy hypothesis: Predicting system justification using objective and subjective socioeconomic status in China and the United States. Asian Journal of Social Psychology. 26(2), 238-253
[Journal article]Authored by: Valdes, E., Williams, M.
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12
Marques, MD., Hill, SR., Clarke, EJR., Williams, MN., Ling, M., Kerr, JR., . . . Sibley, CG. (2022). Democracy and belief in conspiracy theories in New Zealand. Australian Journal of Political Science. 57(3), 264-279
[Journal article]Authored by: Hill, S., Williams, M.
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12
Doyle, EEH., Harrison, SE., Hill, SR., Williams, M., Paton, D., & Bostrom, A. (2022). Eliciting mental models of science and risk for disaster communication: A scoping review of methodologies. International Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction. 77
[Journal article]Authored by: Hill, S., Hudson-Doyle, E., Williams, M.
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20
Dodge, A., Gibson, C., Williams, M., & Ross, K. (2022). Exploring the needs and coping strategies of New Zealand parents in the neonatal environment. Journal of Paediatrics and Child Health. 58(6), 1060-1065
[Journal article]Authored by: Ross, K., Williams, M.
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5
Williams, MN., Marques, MD., Hill, SR., Kerr, JR., & Ling, M. (2022). Why are beliefs in different conspiracy theories positively correlated across individuals? Testing monological network versus unidimensional factor model explanations. British Journal of Social Psychology. 61(3), 1011-1031
[Journal article]Authored by: Hill, S., Williams, M.
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43
Feather, G., & Williams, M. (2022). The moderating effects of psychological flexibility and psychological inflexibility on the relationship between climate concern and climate-related distress. Journal of Contextual Behavioral Science. 23, 137-143
[Journal article]Authored by: Williams, M.
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26
Williams, MN., Hill, SR., & Spicer, J. (2015). The relationship between temperature and assault in New Zealand. Climatic Change. 132(4), 559-573
[Journal article]Authored by: Hill, S., Williams, M.
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10
Williams, MN., & Hill, SR. (2022). Inferences about the effect of lockdowns on mental health require causal identification strategies. Journal of Paediatrics and Child Health. 58(1), 216-217
[Journal article]Authored by: Hill, S., Williams, M.
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Williams, MN., Hill, SR., & Spicer, J. (2021). Do hotter temperatures increase the incidence of self-harm hospitalisations?. Psychology, Health and Medicine. 21(2), 226-235 Retrieved from https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/13548506.2015.1028945
[Journal article]Authored by: Hill, S., Williams, M.
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Williams, MN., & Edwards, SR. (2022). Conceptual replication of Seo (2008), “Self-efficacy as a mediator in the relationship between self-oriented perfectionism and academic procrastination”. Current Issues in Personality Psychology. 10(2), 98-111
[Journal article]Authored by: Williams, M.
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3
Beaudry, JL., Williams, MN., Philipp, MC., & Kothe, EJ. (2024). What do Incoming University Students Believe About Open Science Practices in Psychology?. Teaching of Psychology. 51(3), 269-276
[Journal article]Authored by: Williams, M.
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Brown, NJL., van Rongen, JB., van der Velde, J., & Williams, M. (2021). A reproduction of the results of Onyike et al. (2003). Meta-Psychology. 5, 2-10 Retrieved from https://open.lnu.se/index.php/metapsychology/issue/view/174
[Journal article]Authored by: Williams, M.
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Gibson, C., Ross, K., Williams, M., & de Vries, N. (2021). The Experiences of Mothers in a Neonatal Unit and Their Use of the Babble App. Sage Open. 11(2)
[Journal article]Authored by: Ross, K., Williams, M.
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10
1
Williams, MN. (2021). Levels of measurement and statistical analyses. Meta-Psychology. 5, Retrieved from https://open.lnu.se/index.php/metapsychology/article/view/1916
[Journal article]Authored by: Williams, M.
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Garea, SS., Drummond, A., Sauer, JD., Hall, LC., & Williams, MN. (2021). Meta-analysis of the relationship between problem gambling, excessive gaming and loot box spending. International Gambling Studies. 21(3), 460-479
[Journal article]Authored by: Garea, S., Williams, M.
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94
3
Marques, MD., Kerr, JR., Williams, MN., Ling, M., & McLennan, J. (2021). Associations between conspiracism and the rejection of scientific innovations. Public Understanding of Science. 30(7), 854-867
[Journal article]Authored by: Williams, M.
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21
3
Marques, MD., Ling, M., Williams, MN., Kerr, JR., & McLennan, J. (2022). Australasian Public Awareness and Belief in Conspiracy Theories: Motivational Correlates. Political Psychology. 43(1), 177-198
[Journal article]Authored by: Williams, M.
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24
2
Smith, JH., Kempton, HM., Williams, MN., & van Ommen, C. (2021). Mindfulness as practice: A network analysis of FMI data. Counselling and Psychotherapy Research. 21(4), 899-909
[Journal article]Authored by: Kempton, H., Van Ommen, C., Williams, M.
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3
Holman, MS., & Williams, MN. (2020). Young New Zealanders’ beliefs about youth suicide and how it can be prevented. New Zealand Journal of Psychology. 49(1), 22-28
[Journal article]Authored by: Williams, M.
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1
Scott-Campbell, C., & Williams, M. (2020). Validating the Workplace Dignity Scale. Collabra Psychology. 6(1)
[Journal article]Authored by: Williams, M.
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8
Williams, MN., & Jaftha, BA. (2020). Perceptions of Powerlessness Are Negatively Associated with Taking Action on Climate Change: A Preregistered Replication. Ecopsychology. 12(4), 257-266
[Journal article]Authored by: Williams, M.
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12
Kember, SM., & Williams, MN. (2021). Autism in Aotearoa: Is the RAADS-14 a Valid Tool for a New Zealand Population?. European Journal of Psychological Assessment. 37(3), 247-257
[Journal article]Authored by: Williams, M.
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5
2
Holman, MS., & Williams, MN. (2020). Suicide Risk and Protective Factors: A Network Approach. Archives of Suicide Research. , 1-18
[Journal article]Authored by: Williams, M.
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4
Williams, MN., & Bond, CMC. (2020). A preregistered replication of “Inoculating the public against misinformation about climate change”. Journal of Environmental Psychology. 70
[Journal article]Authored by: Williams, M.
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Williams, MN., & Albers, CJ. (2019). Dealing with distributional assumptions in preregistered research. Meta-Psychology. 3, Retrieved from https://open.lnu.se/index.php/metapsychology/article/view/1592
[Journal article]Authored by: Williams, M.
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O’donnell, M., Nelson, LD., Ackermann, E., Aczel, B., Akhtar, A., Aldrovandi, S., . . . Steele, KM. (2018). Registered Replication Report: Dijksterhuis and van Knippenberg (1998). Perspectives on Psychological Science. 13(2), 268-294
[Journal article]Authored by: Williams, M.
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38
Lakens, D., Adolfi, FG., Albers, CJ., Anvari, F., Apps, MAJ., Argamon, SE., . . . Zwaan, RA. (2018). Justify your alpha. Nature Human Behaviour. 2(3), 168-171
[Journal article]Authored by: Williams, M.
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179
Williams, MN., Bååth, RA., & Philipp, MC. (2017). Using Bayes Factors to Test Hypotheses in Developmental Research. Research in Human Development. 14(4), 321-337
[Journal article]Authored by: Williams, M.
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13
4
Furness, K., Williams, MN., Veale, JF., & Gardner, DH. (2017). Maximising potential: The psychological effects of the youth development programme project K. New Zealand Journal of Psychology. 46(1), 14-23
[Journal article]Authored by: Gardner, D., Williams, M.
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11
Towers, A., Williams, MN., Hill, SR., Philipp, MC., & Flett, R. (2016). What makes for the most intense regrets? Comparing the effects of several theoretical predictors of regret intensity. Frontiers in Psychology. 7(DEC)
[Journal article]Authored by: Hill, S., Towers, A., Williams, M.
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21
13
Williams, MN., Hill, SR., & Spicer, J. (2016). Erratum to: Will climate change increase or decrease suicide rates? The differing effects of geographical, seasonal, and irregular variation in temperature on suicide incidence (Climatic Change, 130, (2015), 519-528, 10.1007/s10584-015-1371-9). Climatic Change. 134(1-2), 341
[Journal article]Authored by: Hill, S., Williams, M.
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Veale, JF., & Williams, MN. (2017). The psychometric properties of a brief version of the systemizing quotient. European Journal of Psychological Assessment. 33(3), 173-180
[Journal article]Authored by: Williams, M.
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4
1
Williams, MN., Hill, SR., & Spicer, J. (2016). Do hotter temperatures increase the incidence of self-harm hospitalisations?. Psychology Health and Medicine. 21(2), 226-235
[Journal article]Authored by: Hill, S., Williams, M.
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30
12
Williams, MN., Hill, SR., & Spicer, J. (2015). Will climate change increase or decrease suicide rates? The differing effects of geographical, seasonal, and irregular variation in temperature on suicide incidence. Climatic Change. 130(4), 519-528
[Journal article]Authored by: Hill, S., Williams, M.
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20
12
Williams, MN., Grajales, CAG., & Kurkiewicz, D. (2013). Assumptions of multiple regression: Correcting two misconceptions. Practical Assessment Research and Evaluation. 18(9), 1-14
[Journal article]Authored by: Williams, M.
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216
Williams, MN., Hill, SR., & Spicer, J. (2013). In response to "Temperature and violent crime in Dallas, Texas: Relationships and implications of climate change". Western Journal of Emergency Medicine. 14(5), 567
[Journal article]Authored by: Hill, S., Williams, M.
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Williams, MWM., & Williams, MN. (2012). Academic Dishonesty, Self-Control, and General Criminality: A Prospective and Retrospective Study of Academic Dishonesty in a New Zealand University. Ethics and Behavior. 22(2), 89-112
[Journal article]Authored by: Williams, M.
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24
Williams, MN., & Jones, LM. (2012). Validating a measure of children's monitoring-blunting coping styles in dental situations. Psychology Health and Medicine. 17(3), 274-284
[Journal article]Authored by: Williams, M.
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Thesis

Valdes, E. (2025). Across borders and time: testing the competing perspectives of system justification. (Doctoral Thesis)
[Doctoral Thesis]Authored by: Valdes, E.Edited by: Williams, M.
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Williams, MN. (2016). How well do psychologists' research methods equip them to identify the impacts of climate change on behaviour? A methodological investigation with particular reference to the effects of temperature on violent behaviour. (Doctoral Thesis, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand) Williams, MN. (2016). How well do psychologists' research methods equip them to identify the impacts of climate change on behaviour? A methodological investigation with particular reference to the effects of temperature on violent behaviour. (Doctoral Thesis) Williams, MN. (2016). How well do psychologists' research methods equip them to identify the impacts of climate change on behaviour? A methodological investigation with particular reference to the effects of temperature on violent behaviour. (Doctoral Thesis)
[Doctoral Thesis]Authored by: Williams, M.
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Williams, MN. (2010). Coping in the chair: A validation study of the Monitoring Blunting Dental Scale. (Master's Thesis)
[Masters Thesis]Authored by: Williams, M.

Report

Hill, S., Marques, M., Kerr, J., Clarke, E., Ling, M., & Williams, M. (2025). The Psychology of Institutional Trust Judgements: Causes and Consequences.
[Commissioned Report]Authored by: Hill, S., Williams, M.

Conference

Marques, M., Williams, M., Clarke, E., Fida, N., Heffernan, J., Hill, S., . . . Tier, J. (2025, November). Testing the socio-functional model: Does precarity cause conspiracy belief?. Presented at SASP-ACPID. Melbourne.
[Conference Oral Presentation]Authored by: Hill, S., Williams, M.
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Neville, C., & Williams, M. (2025, November). Does truth pay? Testing the Bayesian Truth Serum in psychological research. Presented at SASP-ACPID. Melbourne.
[Conference Oral Presentation]Authored by: Williams, M.
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Williams, M., Marques, M., Ling, M., Hill, S., Kerr, J., Clarke, E., . . . Ross, R. (2025, November). Examining the prevalence and predictors of belief in conspiracy theories when accounting for insincerity. Presented at SASP-ACPID. Melbourne.
[Conference Oral Presentation]Authored by: Hill, S., Martin, A., Williams, M.
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Henry, N., Pedersen, M., Williams, M., & Donkin, L. (2024). Behavioural count response analysis: A method for regulating repeatable AI behaviors. Poster session presented at the meeting of Technical AI Safety Conference (TAIS) 2024. Koto City, Tokyo, Japan
[Conference Poster]Authored by: Williams, M.
Henry, N., Pedersen, M., Williams, M., & Donkin, L. (2024, February). Modeling frequency-based hormesis with behavioral posology: Theory and applications. Presented at Australasian Mathematical Psychology Conference. Perth, Australia.
[Conference Oral Presentation]Authored by: Williams, M.

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Hudson-Doyle, E., Thompson, J., Hill, S., Williams, M., Paton, D., Harrison, S., . . . Becker, J. (2023). Mental models and the understanding of hazard and risk: lessons for communicating uncertainty in volcanology.. In Book of Abstracts: International Association of Volcanology and Chemistry of the Earth's Interior (IAVCEI) 2023 Scientific Assembly(pp. 487 - 487). , International Association of Volcanology and Chemistry of the Earth's Interior (IAVCEI) 2023 Scientific Assembly Rotorua, New Zealand: International Association of Volcanology and Chemistry of the Earth's Interior
[Conference Abstract]Authored by: Becker, J., Hill, S., Hudson-Doyle, E., Williams, M.
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Doyle, EEH., Thompson, J., Hill, S., Williams, M., Paton, D., Harrison, S., . . . Becker, J. (2022). Uncertainty: Where do individuals think it comes from? Understanding mental models of natural hazards science and advice.. In Geoscience Society of New Zealand Miscellaneous Publication Vol. 161A (pp. 124 - 124). , Geoscience Society of New Zealand Annual Conference (Geosciences) 2022: A Whole New World - From Local to Global Wellington, New Zealand: Geoscience Society of New Zealand
[Conference Abstract]Authored by: Becker, J., Hill, S., Hudson-Doyle, E., Williams, M.
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Williams, M. (2022, November). Down the rabbit hole? Lessons from psychological research on conspiracy theories [Keynote]. Presented at Presentation at the New Zealand Association of Psychology Teachers annual conference. Auckland.
[Conference Oral Presentation]Authored by: Williams, M.
Read article at Massey Research Online: MRO icon
Williams, M. (2022, November). Meta-scientific reflections on psychological research about conspiracy theories. Presented at UC Meta Colloquium. University of Canterbury, Christchuch.
[Conference Oral Presentation]Authored by: Williams, M.
Read Abstract: abstract icon
Williams, M., Ling, M., Kerr, JR., Hill, S., Marques, MD., & Mawson, HS. (2022, February). Changes in beliefs in conspiracy theories in Australasians in 2021: Findings of a longitudinal investigation. Presented at Australasian Society for Behavioural Health and Medicine Conference. Online.
[Conference Oral Presentation]Authored by: Hill, S., Williams, M.
Read Abstract: abstract icon
Kember, S., Williams, M., Hill, S., & Taylor, J. (2022, February). Vaccination in Aotearoa: the role of anticipated regret, temporal discounting and maternal mental health. Presented at Australasian Society of Behavioural Health and Medicine Conference
[Conference Oral Presentation]Authored by: Hill, S., Taylor, J., Williams, M.
Read Abstract: abstract icon
Hudson-Doyle, E., Harrison, S., Hill, S., Williams, M., Paton, D., Bostrom, A., . . . Becker, J. (2021). Eliciting mental models to understand how different individuals affected by disaster risk understand science, and scientific uncertainty.. In EMS Annual Meeting Abstracts Vol. 18 , European Meteorological Society Annual (EMS) Annual Meeting 2021 Göttingen, Germany: Copernicus Publications on behalf of the European Meteorological Society
[Conference Abstract]Authored by: Becker, J., Hill, S., Hudson-Doyle, E., Williams, M.
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Garea, SS., Drummond, A., Sauer, JD., Hall, LC., & Williams, M. (2021, July). Relationships between Problem Gambling, Excessive Gaming and Loot Box Purchasing Investigated via Meta-Analysis.. Presented at SARMAC Virtual ’21
[Conference Oral Presentation]Authored by: Williams, M.
Gibson, C., Ross, K., Williams, M., & de Vries, N. (2019). Parents' experiences of the neonatal unit and the role of the Babble App. Poster session presented at the meeting of Paediatric Society of New Zealand 71st Annual Scientific Meeting. Auckland, New Zealand
[Conference Poster]Authored by: Ross, K., Williams, M.
Read Abstract: abstract icon
Williams, M. (2019, November). Open access publishing [Invited presentation]. Presented at Massey University College of Humanities and Social Sciences Ka Awatea annual conference. Palmerston North, New Zealand.
[Conference Oral Presentation]Authored by: Williams, M.
Read article at Massey Research Online: MRO icon
Philipp, M., & Williams, M.The Open Science Workshop. . Wellington, New Zealand
[Conference Other]Authored by: Williams, M.
Williams, M., & Albers, C. (2018, September). Dealing with Distributional Assumptions in Pre-Registered Research.. Presented at Australasian Open Science Conference. Brisbane, Australia.
[Conference Oral Presentation]Authored by: Williams, M.
Read Abstract: abstract icon
Williams, M. (2018, November). Research methods in psychology. Presented at New Zealand Association of Psychology Teachers conference. Auckland, New Zealand.
[Conference Oral Presentation]Authored by: Williams, M.
Read article at Massey Research Online: MRO icon
Williams, MN. (2018, April). Why social psychologists using Structural Equation Modelling need to pre-register their studies. Presented at Society of Australasian Social Psychologists (SASP) Conference. Wellington, New Zealand.
[Conference Oral Presentation]Authored by: Williams, M.
Read article at Massey Research Online: MRO icon
Read Abstract: abstract icon
Smith, J., Buttle, H., van Ommen, C., & Williams, MN. (2016, September). Placing mindfulness under the lens: A network analysis. Presented at New Zealand Psychological Society Annual Conference. Wellington, New Zealand.
[Conference Oral Presentation]Authored by: Kempton, H., Van Ommen, C., Williams, M.
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Williams, MN., Furness, K., Veale, JF., & Gardner, DH. (2016, September). The effects of Project K on the wellbeing of adolescents: A multilevel model analysis. Presented at New Zealand Psychological Society Annual Conference. Wellington, New Zealand.
[Conference Oral Presentation]Authored by: Gardner, D., Williams, M.
Read Abstract: abstract icon
Williams, MN. (2016). The robust negative relationship between mean temperature and national suicide rates. Poster session presented at the meeting of 28th Annual Association for Psychological Science Convention. Chicago, United States of America
[Conference Poster]Authored by: Williams, M.
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Williams, MN. (2016, May). Bayes factor null hypothesis tests are still null hypothesis tests. Presented at Modern Modeling Methods conference. Storrs, United States of America.
[Conference Oral Presentation]Authored by: Williams, M.
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Williams, MN., Hill, SR., & Spicer, J. (2015, August). Will climate change increase or decrease suicide rates. Presented at NZPsS Annual Conference. Hamilton, New Zealand.
[Conference Oral Presentation]Authored by: Hill, S., Williams, M.
Read Abstract: abstract icon
Williams, M., Towers, ., Philipp, MC., & Hill, S. (2014, August). Predictably regretful: A comparison of the effects of time, domain, justification, and life rule contradiction on the intensity of regrets. Presented at New Zealand Psychological Society Annual Conference: Ka tū, ka oho - Te matai hinengaro me te ao hou: Psychology in a Changing World. Nelson, New Zealand.
[Conference Oral Presentation]Authored by: Hill, S., Towers, A., Williams, M.
Read Abstract: abstract icon
Williams, MN., & Hill, SR. (2013). Will hotter temperatures increase violent crime rates? The challenges of forecasting behavioural response to climate change. Poster session presented at the meeting of The New Zealand Climate Change Conference 2013. Palmerston North, New Zealand
[Conference Poster]Authored by: Hill, S., Williams, M.
Read Abstract: abstract icon
Williams, M., & Jones, LM. (2010, July). Interventions for children’s dental anxiety: Validating a coping styles scale. Presented at New Zealand Psychological Society Annual Conference 2010: Psychology for a sustainable Future A hinengaro ma tokana a mua. Rotorua, New Zealand.
[Conference Oral Presentation]Authored by: Williams, M.
Read article at Massey Research Online: MRO icon
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Other

Williams, M. (2025, November). Do you really believe in lizard people? Examining the prevalence and predictors of belief in conspiracy theories when accounting for insincerity. In La Trobe University social/cultural psychology seminar series.
[Oral Presentation]Authored by: Williams, M.
Read Abstract: abstract icon
Fox, N., Williams, M., & Hill, S. (2025). New research challenges the idea of a ‘vicious cycle’ between psychological distress and conspiracy beliefs.
[Internet publication]Authored by: Hill, S., Williams, M.
Read article at Massey Research Online: MRO icon
Williams, M. (2025, May). Why do people change their minds about conspiracy theories?. Presented at University of Canterbury School of Psychology, Speech and Hearing.
[Oral Presentation]Authored by: Williams, M.
Read Abstract: abstract icon
Williams, M. (2025, May). Do you really believe in lizard people? Identifying and disincentivising insincere responses in survey research. In Seminar at University of Canterbury School of Psychology, Speech and Hearing. Presented at University of Canterbury.
[Oral Presentation]Authored by: Williams, M.
Read Abstract: abstract icon
Williams, M., Kerr, J., & Marques, M. (2024). Out of the rabbit hole: new research shows people can change their minds about conspiracy theories.
[Internet publication]Authored by: Williams, M.
Read article at Massey Research Online: MRO icon

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Williams, M. (2023, August). Down the rabbit hole? Lessons from psychological research on conspiracy theories. In Selwyn Community College Think Talk. Presented at Selwyn College Community Education.
[Oral Presentation]Authored by: Williams, M.
Read Abstract: abstract icon
Williams, M. (2023, July). Using journal articles as a basis for organisational practice. In IO Psych Special Interest Group. Presented at Online.
[Oral Presentation]Authored by: Williams, M.
Read Abstract: abstract icon
Williams, M. (2022, June). Did that really work? Examining the effects of interventions using quantitative and qualitative measures. Presented at Presentation for ACC New Zealand.
[Oral Presentation]Authored by: Williams, M.
Williams, M. (2022, May). Why are beliefs in different conspiracy theories positively correlated across individuals?. Presented at University of Auckland Health Psychology Seminar Series.
[Oral Presentation]Authored by: Williams, M.
Kember, S., Williams, M., Hill, S., Taylor, J., & Taylor, J. (2022, February). Vaccination in Aotearoa: The role of anticipated regret, temporal discounting and maternal mental health. In Australasian Society of Behavioural Health and Medicine Conference. Presented at Brisbane (online).
[Oral Presentation]Authored by: Hill, S., Taylor, J., Williams, M.
Read Abstract: abstract icon
Williams, M. (2022, August). Belief in conspiracy theories: Some recent research in New Zealand and Australia. In Cross-government audience including members from the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet, NZ Police, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Ministry of Education, Corrections, and the Electoral Commission (hosted by Department of Internal Affairs)..
[Oral Presentation]Authored by: Williams, M.
Read article at Massey Research Online: MRO icon
Marques, M., McLennan, J., Kerr, J., Ling, M., & Williams, M. (2021). Was Phar Lap killed by gangsters? New research shows which conspiracies people believe in and why. : The Conversation Media Group Ltd
[Internet publication]Authored by: Williams, M.
Read article at Massey Research Online: MRO icon
Read Online: DOI icon
Williams, M. (2019, May). Climate change, health, and psychology (Invited presentation: University of Auckland Health Psychology seminar series).
[Oral Presentation]Authored by: Williams, M.
Read article at Massey Research Online: MRO icon
Read Abstract: abstract icon
Williams, MN., Marques, MD., Kerr, JR., Hill, SR., Ling, M., & Clarke, EJR.Does Developing a Belief in One Conspiracy Theory Lead a Person to be More Likely to Believe in Others?.
[Oral Presentation]Authored by: Hill, S., Williams, M.
Read Abstract: abstract icon
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Uncategorised

Paing, L., O'Keefe, K., McMurtrie, B., & Williams, MN.OctoberNovemberPaing, L., O'Keefe, K., McMurtrie, B., & Williams, M.OctoberPaing, L., O'Keefe, K., McMurtrie, B., & Williams, MN.OctoberNovemberNovember
[Preprint]Authored by: McMurtrie, B., Williams, M.
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Williams, MN., Anderson, RC., Fox, ND., Skinner, CM., & McMurtrie, BL.JanuaryOctoberWilliams, M., Anderson, R., Fox, N., Skinner, C., & McMurtrie, B.JanuaryWilliams, MN., Anderson, RC., Fox, ND., Skinner, CM., & McMurtrie, BL.JanuaryDecemberDecember
[Preprint]Authored by: McMurtrie, B., Williams, M.
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Williams, M., Hill, SR., & Spicer, J.SeptemberNovemberWilliams, M., Hill, SR., & Spicer, J.SeptemberWilliams, M., Hill, SR., & Spicer, J.SeptemberNovemberNovember
[Preprint]Authored by: Hill, S., Williams, M.
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Williams, MN., Ling, M., Kerr, JR., Hill, SR., Marques, MD., Mawson, H., . . . Clarke, EJR.MarchNovemberWilliams, M., Ling, M., Kerr, J., Hill, SR., Marques, MD., Mawson, H., . . . Clarke, EJR.AprilWilliams, MN., Ling, M., Kerr, JR., Hill, SR., Marques, MD., Mawson, H., . . . Clarke, EJR.MarchNovemberNovember
[Preprint]Authored by: Hill, S., Williams, M.
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Williams, MN., & Hill, SR.DecemberNovemberWilliams, M., & Hill, SR.JanuaryWilliams, MN., & Hill, SR.DecemberAprilApril
[Preprint]Authored by: Hill, S., Williams, M.
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Williams, MN.MayJuneWilliams, MN.MayMay
[Preprint]Authored by: Williams, M.
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Brown, NJL., van Rongen, J., van de Velde, J., & Williams, M.MayJuneBrown, NJL., van, RJ., van, DVJ., & Williams, M.MayMayBrown, NJL., van, RJ., van, DVJ., & Williams, M.September
[Preprint]Authored by: Williams, M.
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Teaching and Supervision

Contact Supervisor

Graduate Supervision Statement

My main research interests are:

  1. Misinformation and conspiracy theories. For example, what drives people to believe and spread misinformation? Why do people change their minds about conspiracy theories?
  2. Metapsychology and methodology. For example, how often do researchers make action recommendations that aren't warranted by their findings? How can we best detect insincere responses to surveys ("trolling")?

Most of my research is quantitative, and I am a strong supporter of open science practices. I have very limited supervision availability for 2026, but am happy to receive queries from students who share my research interests.

Please note that I will only consider doctoral students who can demonstrate strong existing research skills (e.g., via previous research outputs).


Associate Professor Matt Williams is available for Masters and Doctorial supervision.

Summary of Doctoral Supervision

Position Current Completed
Main Supervisor 3 10
Co-supervisor 2 6

Current Doctoral Supervision

Main Supervisor of:

  • Brandon McMurtrie - Doctor of Philosophy
    Measuring affective polarization, examining its potential as a sociopolitical stressor, and investigating the role of identity threat: a longitudinal
  • Casey Scott-Campbell - Doctor of Philosophy
    Exploring Evolutionary Insights about Suicide
  • Shaun Garea - Doctor of Philosophy
    Loot Boxes and Proximal Gambling Practices Found in Video Games

Co-supervisor of:

  • Macky Wilkinson - Doctor of Clinical Psychology
    A YCTeam effort: Evaluation of a multiagency approach (Youth Coordination Teams) to youth offending in Aotearoa New Zealand (NZ)
  • Alex Shepherd - Doctor of Clinical Psychology
    Metacognition in relation to adult cognitive performance

Completed Doctoral Supervision

Main Supervisor of:

  • 2025 - Nicholas Fox - Doctor of Clinical Psychology
    Do stress, depression and anxiety lead to beliefs in conspiracy theories over time?
  • 2025 - Tamara McLean - Doctor of Clinical Psychology
    Do Climate Anxiety and Pro-Environmental Behaviour Affect One Another? A Longitudinal Investigation
  • 2025 - Evan Valdes - Doctor of Philosophy
    Across borders and time: Testing the competing perspectives of system justification
  • 2025 - Andrew Dodge - Doctor of Clinical Psychology
    An Exploration into Gender and Generational Differences in Mental Health Literacy in Aotearoa New Zealand and Australia
  • 2024 - Mikayla Holman - Doctor of Clinical Psychology
    A Temporal Network Analysis of Risk Factors for Suicide
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  • 2023 - Sarah Kember - Doctor of Clinical Psychology
    Vaccination in Aotearoa: The role of anticipated regret, temporal discounting, and maternal mental health
  • 2023 - Shoni Marshall-Edwards - Doctor of Clinical Psychology
    Investigating Decision-Regret and Distress Among Psychologists Impacted by Client Suicide
  • 2023 - Donnella De Silva - Doctor of Clinical Psychology
    The Relationships Between Non-Suicidal Self-Injury, Emotion Dysregulation, Self-Esteem, and Self-Compassion among Young Adults in Aotearoa New Zealand
  • 2022 - Emily Cory - Doctor of Clinical Psychology
    Non-Suicidal Self-Injury and Perfectionism in Young Adults
  • 2021 - Andrew Walmsley - Doctor of Clinical Psychology
    The Right Tool for the Job: An Investigation into Men’s Help-Seeking Behaviours and Attitudes in a sample of New Zealand Construction Workers
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Co-supervisor of:

  • 2025 - Leith Morrimire - Doctor of Philosophy
    Pakiaka Tupuora Parenting From the Start: Evaluating a preventative intervention to improve attachment and health outcomes for mothers and their babies
  • 2021 - Brooke Yelavich - Doctor of Clinical Psychology
    An Investigation of the Factors Relating to Attendance of Psychological Appointments
  • 2021 - Charlotte Gibson - Doctor of Clinical Psychology
    Babies and Babble: Parents' Experiences of the Neonatal Unit and the Role of the Babble App
  • 2021 - Natalija Damnjanovic - Doctor of Clinical Psychology
    The “ACT-ive” Pursuit of Loss and Gain: The Impact of an Acceptance and Commitment Therapy-based Intervention on Post Weight-Loss Surgery Individuals.
  • 2020 - Aramis Dennan - Doctor of Clinical Psychology
    A Dominant Swipe: Does Ambivalent Sexism Impact Young Adults’ Engagement with Dating Applications?
  • view more...
  • 2019 - Joseph Smith - Doctor of Clinical Psychology
    Network Models of Mindfulness
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Media and Links

Media

  • 29 Apr 2021 - Radio
    RNZ The Panel
    I was interviewed about our research on conspiracy theories (Marques et al., 2021) on RNZ's The Panel.
  • 27 May 2021 - Television
    The Project
    Our recent research on beliefs in conspiracy theories was covered on TV3's 'The Project'. (From 12:54 in the video)
  • 21 Nov 2022 - Television
    Conspiraseries
    Conspiraseries is a tongue-in-cheek investigative web series about Kiwi conspiracy theories, directed by Jaimee Poipoi and distributed by RNZ Tahi. I served as the show's expert on conspiracy theories
  • 21 Mar 2022 - Television
    Te Ao with Moana Season 4 Episode 3
    Interview in episode entitled "Falling down the 'conspiracy theory' rabbit hole - a conversation with survivors"
  • 21 Jun 2015 - Newspaper
    New research finds connection between climate and
    An article in the Sunday Star Times entitled "New research finds connection between climate and crime" discussed my journal article "The relationship between temperature and assault in New Zealand".
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  • 18 Mar 2022 - Newspaper
    "They just lose it"
    Koubaridis, A. (2022, March 18). ‘They just lose it’: New theory on anti-vaxxers, conspiracy theorists. Herald Sun.
  • 14 Nov 2021 - Newspaper, Online
    Study to track why Kiwis fall down conspiracy, mis
    Article by Jamie Morton describing my planned longitudinal study.
  • 03 Feb 2022 - Newspaper, Online
    Pourquoi une croyance conspirationniste...
    Pourquoi une croyance conspirationniste en renforce-t-elle d’autres ? [Why does one conspiratorial belief reinforce others?] Article in French on the Belgian news website RTBF by Johanne Montay. Descr
  • 01 Jul 2025 - Magazine
    AMPPS accepts first manuscript from innovative...
    AMPPS accepts first manuscript from innovative peer review syster (article in the APS Observer discussing Neville & Williams, 2025))
  • 01 Dec 2016 - Online
    Interview:"Who Cares? What's the point?" (podcast)
    I was interviewed on Sarb Johal's "Who cares? What's the point?" podcast, with the episode focusing on my research on climate change and human aggression.
  • 01 Dec 2016 - Online
    Interview: "Who cares? What's the point?" podcast
    My research on climate change and assault resulted in an interview on Sarb Johal's "Who cares? What's the point?" podcast. The interview was subsequently covered on sciblogs.co.nz, which is New Zealan
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Other Links