What is cognitive dissonance?

Cognitive dissonance refers to the mental discomfort or psychological tension that arises when an individual holds two or more contradictory beliefs, values, or attitudes, especially when their behavior conflicts with these beliefs. This dissonance can lead to feelings of unease or tension, motivating the person to reduce the dissonance in some way, such as changing their beliefs, justifying their behavior, or distancing themselves from the conflicting belief or situation.

Recognizing this phenomenon is vital in developmental psychology, as it plays a significant role in how individuals adapt and reformulate their thoughts and actions in response to new information or experiences. Understanding cognitive dissonance helps explain how people rationalize their decisions and behaviors, contributing to insights about personal growth and change across the lifespan.