What is cognitive dissonance?

Cognitive dissonance refers to a psychological phenomenon that occurs when an individual experiences mental discomfort or tension from holding two or more conflicting beliefs, attitudes, or values simultaneously. This state of discomfort often leads to motivation for the individual to resolve the dissonance, typically by changing one of the conflicting beliefs, acquiring new information, or minimizing the importance of the conflicting belief.

Understanding this concept is crucial because it highlights how our beliefs and actions can be in conflict, leading to personal distress. Recognizing this tension can motivate changes in behavior or belief systems, enabling personal growth or a shift in perspectives.

The other responses do not accurately define cognitive dissonance. While the first option suggests comfort in holding multiple beliefs, cognitive dissonance is quite the opposite, as it emphasizes discomfort. The third option describes a therapeutic technique rather than a psychological phenomenon, and the fourth option implies a focus on social interactions rather than personal belief conflicts—neither of which captures the essence of cognitive dissonance as a mental state rooted in conflicting cognitions.