Cognitive dissonance theory postulates that an underlying psychological tension is created when an individual’s behavior is inconsistent with his or her thoughts and beliefs . This underlying tension then motivates an individual to make an attitude change that would produce consistency between thoughts and behaviors.
What is an example of cognitive dissonance theory?
This produces a feeling of mental discomfort leading to an alteration in one of the attitudes, beliefs or behaviors to reduce the discomfort and restore balance. For example, when people smoke (behavior) and they know that smoking causes cancer (cognition), they are in a state of cognitive dissonance.
What is the cognitive dissonance theory quizlet?
The tendency to overestimate the intensity and duration of our emotional reactions to future negative events . Dissonance aroused after making a decision, typically reduced by enhancing the attractiveness of the chosen alternative and devaluating the rejected alternatives.
Why cognitive dissonance is bad?
Cognitive dissonance can be problematic if you start to justify or rationalize destructive behaviors or if you start to stress yourself out by trying to rationalize the dissonance. When cognitive dissonance goes unaddressed, it can not only cause angst, but it can lead to impaired decision-making.
Is cognitive dissonance the same as hypocrisy?
Cognitive dissonance theory has a long and esteemed history in social psychology. ... Hypocrisy is a special case of cognitive dissonance , produced when a person freely chooses to promote a behavior that they do not themselves practice.
Which is the best example of cognitive dissonance?
- Picking up after your dog. ...
- Getting enough exercise. ...
- Moving for love. ...
- Being productive at work. ...
- Eating meat.
What is the key idea behind cognitive dissonance theory quizlet?
Basic Idea of Cognitive Dissonance Theory: When we do something we don’t agree with (Counter-attitudinal) this creates an unpleasant, arousing feeling called “cognitive dissonance” that occurs because we realize that our cognitions are inconsistent or that our behavior is inconsistent with what we believe.
Which of the following is the most accurate definition of cognitive dissonance?
The term cognitive dissonance is used to describe the mental discomfort that results from holding two conflicting beliefs, values , or attitudes. People tend to seek consistency in their attitudes and perceptions, so this conflict causes feelings of unease or discomfort.
Is cognitive dissonance a good thing?
Although people may think cognitive dissonance is a bad thing, it actually helps to keep us mentally healthy and happy . It may make us feel satisfied with our choices—or at least lets us justify them—especially when they cannot be easily reversed.
How do you break cognitive dissonance?
- Mindfulness. ...
- Challenge current beliefs. ...
- Consider the importance of dissonant thoughts. ...
- Justifying behavior. ...
- Induce effort. ...
- Provide choice. ...
- Provide a safe space and consider the use of relaxation techniques. ...
- Discussing discrepant behavior.
What is cognitive dissonance narcissism?
One of the key methods of emotional abuse employed by people with narcissistic tendencies is the generalized concept called cognitive dissonance. ... Essentially, cognitive dissonance occurs when humans experience a state of holding two or more contradictory thoughts or beliefs in their cognition at one time .
What is cognitive dissonance in relationships?
Cognitive dissonance in relationships is when our attitudes or beliefs regarding the relationship and our partner differ from our behaviors . ... The psychological discomfort we feel when we experience cognitive dissonance can spur us to make informed decisions . . if we’re open to them.
What is the hypocrisy paradigm?
The hypocrisy paradigm is an experimental method used to induce feelings of hypocrisy and the associated negative emotions . The paradigm was developed by Elliot Aronson and colleagues in 1991 as a social influence technique to change intentions and behavior in the context of sexual health.
What is hypocritical condition?
: characterized by behavior that contradicts what one claims to believe or feel : characterized by hypocrisy said that it was hypocritical to demand respect from students without respecting them in return a hypocritical gesture of modesty and virtue— Robert Graves also : being a person who acts in contradiction to his ...
What are the effects of cognitive dissonance?
Cognitive dissonance causes feelings of unease and tension , and people attempt to relieve this discomfort in different ways. Examples include “explaining things away” or rejecting new information that conflicts with their existing beliefs.
What is an example of dissonance?
A baby crying, a person screaming and an alarm going off are all common examples of dissonance. These sounds are annoying, disruptive or put a listener on edge. Another useful reference is music, where dissonance is also a key concept.
