How to tackle misinformation when it’s coming from a loved one

Misleading information about climate change, clean energy and more is all over the internet. And when people don’t have accurate information, that can block progress on solving environmental problems.

So when someone you care about shares misinformation, how do you respond?

Talking to your family and friends can be a powerful way to help stop false narratives from spreading — but those conversations can be hard. Here are some ideas for getting started.

1. Pick your battles

It’s much easier to listen to someone you know and trust — someone who has already demonstrated that they care about you. That’s one reason it makes sense to focus your energy on the people you’re close to, rather than a stranger on the internet. And consider the setting: Some people shut down if they are called out in public. Others may not be open to changing their minds.

Try this: Consider your potential to make an impact before engaging with a friend or relative. If you decide to reach out, start by telling them how much you value your relationship. And speak to them gently, in private, so it doesn't feel like an attack.

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2. Understand their motivation before focusing on the content

When someone shares a piece of “fake news,” it's often driven by confirmation bias. They already believe in the worldview that content supports, so they might feel it helps explain who they are. Now imagine how you’d feel if someone questioned your worldview.

Try this: Acknowledge that neither of you wants to be tricked by “fake news,” that it’s happening on everyone’s feeds and that you’re both looking for sources you can trust.

3. Enter into a dialogue, not a lecture

To get anywhere, you need to treat your friend or family member as an equal. Acting as if you’re right and they’re wrong could only strengthen their views and push the two of you further apart.

Try this: Offer to trade sources. For each of their sources you read, they should read one of yours.

4. Show empathy and focus on genuine connection

People who share misinformation may be feeling afraid or as if circumstances are out of their control. So show kindness instead of anger. Ask questions about how they feel — and acknowledge their answers. When we feel seen, heard and understood, we are much more willing to open our hearts and minds.

Try this: Find common ground. Whether it’s that you both care about keeping your families safe or want to breathe clean air, start with a basic viewpoint you know you share and build from there.

5. Remember, change is hard!

Don’t expect someone to change their mind after one or even several discussions. If they do, that’s great. But a more achievable goal is to nurture an open line of communication with your friend or relative. Focus on having open-minded discussions about misinformation instead of fights.

Try this: Have shorter discussions, more often. That will help take the anxiety out of family and friend events. And who knows? It could strengthen your bond!

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