In cognitive dissonance theory, what is often the result of experiencing discomfort?

Cognitive dissonance theory suggests that when individuals encounter conflicting beliefs or behaviors, they experience psychological discomfort, which motivates them to resolve this dissonance. To alleviate the discomfort associated with conflicting thoughts or actions, individuals often adjust their beliefs or behaviors to achieve a sense of harmony.

For instance, if a person values a healthy lifestyle but also engages in unhealthy eating habits, the resulting dissonance creates discomfort. To resolve this, the individual may choose to adopt healthier eating practices, thereby aligning their behavior with their belief in the importance of health. This adjustment effectively reduces the dissonance and restores cognitive consistency.

The other choices do not accurately capture the outcome of cognitive dissonance. The reinforcement of conflicting beliefs would heighten confusion and discomfort, making resolution less likely. Higher resistance to change in attitudes contradicts the very motivation that drives individuals to seek resolution. Finally, the development of new beliefs that are unrelated to the conflict does not address the dissonance, as it sidesteps the need to reconcile existing beliefs or behaviors.

Ultimately, the adjustment of beliefs or behaviors is a direct response to the discomfort generated by the dissonance, allowing individuals to restore balance in their cognitive processes.