Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Cognitive dissonance refers to the mental discomfort or tension that arises when a person holds conflicting beliefs, attitudes, or values. This occurs because individuals have an innate drive to maintain consistency in their thoughts and behaviors.
Related terms
Effort Justification: The tendency for individuals to justify their hard work or effort by attributing greater value to the outcome. For example, after studying diligently for hours, a student may convince themselves that they enjoyed learning the material even if it was challenging.
Selective Exposure: The tendency for individuals to seek out information or experiences that align with their existing beliefs or attitudes while avoiding conflicting information. For instance, someone who strongly believes in a political ideology might only consume news from sources that support their views.
Post-decision Dissonance: The uneasy feeling experienced after making a decision, especially when there were attractive alternatives not chosen. It often leads individuals to rationalize their choice and emphasize its positive aspects while downplaying potential drawbacks.