PSY220H1 Chapter Notes - Chapter 7: John T. Cacioppo, Asian Canadians, Condom
Document Summary
Rationalizing our own behaviour : cognitive dissonance theory. Feeling bad about irrational behaviour : the arousal of dissonance. Cognitive dissonance theory a model proposed by leon festinger, which states that awareness of consonant cognitions makes us feel good, whereas awareness of dissonant cognitions makes us feel bad. Further, the unpleasant feelings produced by dissonant cognitions motivate us to do something to change our state. Consonant cognitions beliefs that are consistent or compatible with one another; imply the other is valid/good. I brush my teeth twice a day and toothbrushing prevents cavities . Dissonant cognitions beliefs that are inconsistent or logically discrepant with one another; imply the other is wrong/bad. Dissonance can be defined as the state of feeling bad or conflicted about one"s own irrational behaviour. Dissonance between very important cognitions causes more intense negative feelings than less important cognitions e. g. , spending on a useless workshop facilitates more intense dissonance than the useless workshop.