Cognitive dissonance theory suggests that people naturally want to live in a state of cognitive harmony – when beliefs and actions are in line. If they don’t line up, it can make people feel ...

Cognitive dissonance is a type of mental discomfort that happens when there are two conflicting beliefs, values or behaviors in our mind. For example, we may have a belief that our health is very ...

Cognitive dissonance is a common occurrence. We'll explore common examples and give you tips for resolving mental conflicts.

Cognitive dissonance can occur in a range of different situations—including in relationships. Simply put, cognitive dissonance is having two very different thoughts or beliefs about something.

Feeling conflicted about the choices may result from cognitive dissonance—discomfort, tension, or anxiety resulting from holding two conflicting beliefs simultaneously. Here’s what you can do.

Cognitive dissonance is the motivational mechanism that underlies the reluctance to admit mistakes or accept scientific findings even when those findings can save our lives. The cognitive dissonance ...

Cognitive dissonance pops up when your thinking, attitude, behavior, or previous internalized messages conflict with your behavior or new information that you have to reconcile with, Tzall says.

In 1957, Leon Festinger published his findings on cognitive dissonance, and subsequently his theory became an important staple in social psychology. However, the concept of cognitive dissonance has ...

Cognitive dissonance: The person feels guilty about buying cheap clothes from companies that engage in harmful practices. However, they are unable to afford more expensive, ethically made clothing.

Cognitive dissonance can occur in a range of different situations—including in relationships. Simply put, cognitive dissonance is having two very different thoughts or beliefs about something.