In today’s political climate, misinformation spreads faster than ever. As young adults in Kansas City engage in discussions about policies, elections, and social issues, developing strong Check the Facts skills is essential. Whether you’re debating with friends, sharing news online, or deciding how to vote, knowing how to separate fact from fiction helps you make informed decisions.
What is Check the Facts?
Check the Facts is a core Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skill designed to help you manage emotions and reactions by objectively evaluating situations. When applied to politics, this skill allows you to:
✔ Avoid emotional reasoning – Just because something feels true doesn’t mean it is.
✔ Distinguish fact from opinion – Political discussions often mix personal beliefs with objective reality.
✔ Reduce impulsive reactions – Misinformation can provoke strong emotions, leading to unnecessary conflicts.
✔ Make informed choices – Whether voting, discussing policies, or advocating for change, your decisions should be based on verified facts.
How to Check the Facts in Politics
Here are some practical steps to apply this skill when consuming political information in Kansas City and beyond:
1. Identify the Source
- Is the information coming from a credible news outlet, a social media post, or a political ad?
- Reliable sources include nonpartisan fact-checking websites like FactCheck.org, PolitiFact, and Snopes.
- Be wary of clickbait headlines designed to provoke outrage or fear.
2. Cross-Check with Multiple Sources
- If a claim sounds extreme or too good (or bad) to be true, verify it through at least two other reputable sources.
- Compare news from local sources like The Kansas City Star or KCUR with national reporting.
3. Recognize Emotional Manipulation
- Does the information use strong language to incite anger, fear, or excitement?
- Be mindful of loaded words like “disaster,” “traitor,” or “miracle” that can skew objectivity.
4. Look for Data & Evidence
- Are there verified statistics, expert opinions, or official reports supporting the claim?
- Political arguments should be backed by facts, not just personal anecdotes or opinions.
5. Consider the Full Context
- Sometimes, partial truths can be misleading. A quote or statistic taken out of context can distort reality.
- Research the full story before jumping to conclusions.
6. Be Mindful of Social Media Algorithms
- Platforms like Facebook, TikTok, and X (Twitter) show content based on engagement, not accuracy.
- Follow diverse sources and perspectives to avoid living in an echo chamber.
7. Fact-Check Before You Share
- Before reposting a news story or political claim, take a moment to verify its accuracy.
- Spreading misinformation, even unintentionally, contributes to confusion and division.
Why This Matters in Kansas City
Kansas City is a politically diverse region with engaged communities on both sides of the Missouri-Kansas border. Being informed helps young adults like you:
✔ Engage in meaningful discussions without unnecessary conflict.
✔ Make empowered voting decisions in local, state, and national elections.
✔ Advocate for causes based on reality, not rumors.
Final Thought
Checking the facts isn’t about proving someone wrong—it’s about ensuring you’re informed and confident in your views. By applying this DBT skill in political conversations, you contribute to a more educated, thoughtful, and respectful community in Kansas City, and the community you are in.
Need More Support?
At Middle Path Counseling MO/KS, we specialize in DBT and EMDR therapy, helping individuals develop skills to manage emotions, reduce stress, and navigate challenges. Contact us to learn more about how DBT skills can support you in everyday life!
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