Why Do Trump and His Supporters Believe He Is the Victim of Fake News?

There is a pervasive belief among President Donald Trump and his supporters that he is the victim of a vast conspiracy of fake news. This belief is not just an illusion; it is a deep-seated psychological mechanism rooted in a complex interplay of denial, defensive behavior, and the desire to maintain personal power. Understanding the roots of this belief can help provide a clearer picture of how such beliefs come to shape public opinion.

Denial and Self-Pity

It is evident that the belief in fake news is more than just a factual assertion; it is a psychological defense mechanism. Trump and his supporters engage in a significant level of self-pity, often portraying themselves as helpless victims of a targeted campaign to undermine their authority and position. This self-pity can be seen as a form of denial, a way to avoid accepting personal responsibility for any actions or circumstances that may have led to unfavorable outcomes.

This belief, rather than being a rational conviction, is often a strategic deflection. When faced with unfavorable circumstances or accusations, instead of acknowledging potential mistakes or areas of improvement, Trump and his followers seek to transfer responsibility onto external factors. This can be observed in the name-calling and reputation attacks they use against critics, such as labeling them as “crooked Hillary,” “sleepy Joe,” or “lying Ted.”

Narcissism and Control

Underlying this defense mechanism is a profound sense of narcissism. Trump and his supporters often operate from a place of extreme self-importance, believing that they are uniquely perfect and above the law. They cannot fathom the idea that any of their actions, even potentially illegal ones, could be at fault. This psychological blockage leads them to a cycle of victim-blaming and defensive statements which, over time, become deeply entrenched beliefs.

This narcissistic view is further perpetuated by the support of a large, loyal base. The more Trump makes such statements, the more he reinforces these beliefs in his supporters, who in turn reiterate and amplify these claims. This creates a feedback loop where the belief in fake news is perpetuated and strengthened.

Accountability and Hype

The belief in fake news is also a clever tactic to avoid accountability for his actions. As he and his administration are increasingly held accountable for their policies and decisions, the narrative of being a victim of a witch hunt and a con job serves as a defense mechanism. This narrative is not just a way to attract sympathy; it is a tool to gain more financial support from his followers, who see it as a necessary defense against what they perceive as unjust attacks.

The irony of this situation is stark. Trump has a reputation as a con man, yet he accuses others of being con men. This accusation speaks volumes about his own character and the depth of his self-deception. His inability to acknowledge his faults or illegal actions, combined with his need for validation and control, leads to a cycle of continuing to name-call and defend himself, rather than addressing the issues at hand.

In conclusion, the belief in fake news is a complex amalgamation of psychological defense mechanisms, narcissism, and a desperate need for control. Understanding these factors helps in grasping why such beliefs persist and how they impact public discourse and political realities.