What is cognitive dissonance?

Cognitive dissonance refers to the mental discomfort or conflict that arises when a person holds two or more contradictory beliefs, values, or attitudes. This theory, developed by psychologist Leon Festinger, suggests that when individuals experience dissonance, they are motivated to reduce this conflict to restore cognitive harmony. This can lead to changes in beliefs or behaviors as a means to align them more consistently with one another.

The concept highlights how our thoughts and beliefs can influence our feelings and actions, and it underscores the human drive toward internal consistency. When faced with dissonance, people may engage in rationalization, denial, or change their attitudes to lessen the discomfort they feel from holding opposing views. This is why it is closely associated with the sense of conflict between beliefs.