cognitive dissonance theory
we experience discomfort when two of our thoughts are inconsistent. to relieve tension we develop an attitude that is consistent with our actions. Applicable when behaviour is strikingly out of character.
Cognitive dissonance theory is a social psychology concept that describes the discomfort experienced when someone holds two or more conflicting beliefs, values, or ideas at the same time. For example, a smoker who knows that smoking is harmful to their health might experience cognitive dissonance when they realize that they enjoy smoking.
According to the theory, this discomfort motivates the person to reduce the dissonance by changing their beliefs or behaviors to make them more consistent with one another. Thus, the smoker might reduce their cognitive dissonance by quitting smoking or rationalizing their behavior by convincing themselves that smoking isn’t as harmful as it’s made out to be.
Cognitive dissonance theory is often used to explain why people resist or ignore information that contradicts their beliefs or attitudes. The theory suggests that people are motivated to maintain a sense of cognitive consistency, and that they may ignore or reject information that challenges their existing beliefs to avoid experiencing cognitive dissonance.
Overall, cognitive dissonance theory offers insight into how people reconcile conflicting beliefs, and provides a framework for understanding the influence of beliefs and attitudes on behavior.
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