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Post-Purchase Rationalization

Written by the Fiveable Content Team โ€ข Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examโ€ขWritten by the Fiveable Content Team โ€ข Last updated September 2025

Definition

Post-purchase rationalization refers to the psychological process of justifying a purchase or decision after it has been made, even if there are doubts or conflicting information. It is a way for individuals to reduce cognitive dissonance and maintain a positive self-image.

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