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Do you feel uncomfortable making decisions about something you know is not good for you? Does this cause you stress and anxiety? Cognitive dissonance occurs when we act in ways that go against our values. Here we explain more about it and how to find help.
Cognitive dissonance is a psychological phenomenon that occurs when an individual experiences an internal conflict between their thoughts, beliefs, attitudes or behaviours. It usually occurs when a person’s actions do not align with their beliefs or values, leading to a feeling of discomfort or anxiety. To reduce this dissonance, or inner conflict, the individual tends to change their beliefs, attitudes or behaviours to create a more harmonious experience.
Cognitive dissonance is a central theory in social psychology and helps explain many different types of human behaviour and attitude changes.
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Examples of cognitive dissonance include a person who smokes despite knowing that it is harmful to their health. The internal conflict between knowing that smoking is harmful and continuing to smoke can create a sense of discomfort.
To reduce the dissonance, the person can either change their behaviour (stop smoking) or change their beliefs (rationalise their behaviour by thinking the health effects may not be so severe).
Leon Festinger was the psychologist who coined the term ‘cognitive dissonance’. His theory explains how people deal with conflicts between their actions and beliefs. When people act in ways that contradict their beliefs, or when they hold conflicting beliefs, an internal tension or dissonance arises.
This dissonance is unpleasant, leading to attempts to reduce it by changing beliefs, behaviours or by rationalising the inconsistency. Festinger’s theory has been of great importance in social psychology and behavioural change.
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The symptoms of cognitive dissonance manifest themselves in different ways, depending on the individual and the situation. Common signs that someone is experiencing cognitive dissonance include:
These symptoms are not always immediately obvious and can sometimes be subtle. Cognitive dissonance is a natural part of human behaviour and everyone experiences it at some point, but its impact varies by person and situation.
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If you experience these feelings frequently, or if they start to affect your daily life, it may be time to consider contacting a psychologist. Professional help can give you the tools to manage these feelings and understand their origins.
Psychological treatment is possible if you suffer from cognitive dissonance. Motivational interviewing is a method designed specifically to work on creating change in the direction that the person wants and feels best. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is another form of treatment that focuses on thoughts, feelings and behaviours which is also helpful in creating change.
There are also newer forms of CBT such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), which focuses on valued direction, which can be helpful in overcoming cognitive dissonance and creating new ways forward.
Navigating feelings of unreality can be challenging, but remember that you are not alone. By understanding and accepting these feelings, and by seeking help when needed, you can take a step toward feeling better. Lavendla has experienced psychologists and therapists available to support you on this journey. Don’t hesitate to book an online session with one of our team if you need someone to talk to.
Cognitive dissonance is a psychological phenomenon that occurs when an individual experiences an internal conflict between their thoughts, beliefs, attitudes or behaviours. It usually occurs when a person’s actions do not align with their beliefs or values, leading to a feeling of discomfort or anxiety.
Cognitive dissonance can be felt as an internal stress but it can also show up in external behaviours. You may feel confused, ashamed, conflicted and anxious.
On its own, cognitive dissonance is not dangerous, but it can lead to health problems such as stress and anxiety. It is important to seek professional help if these feelings are affecting your everyday life.
Treatment for cognitive dissonance can be done with motivational interviewing in combination with cognitive behavioural therapy, among others, depending on the nature of the problem. It is an individual assessment and treatment.
Yes, cognitive dissonance can be a symptom of other problems such as addiction, anxiety problems, depression or underlying trauma and/or neuropsychiatric problems.
Yes, it can resolve itself if you act in the direction you value.
You should seek professional help if you have a behaviour that is causing problems in your life which you want to change. A psychologist or psychiatrist can provide advice and treatment tailored to the individual’s needs.
Cognitive dissonance can have an impact on work and study performance by causing stress and decision-making anxiety. It can also lead to depression.
Cognitive dissonance is a natural part of human behaviour and everyone experiences it at some point, but its impact varies depending on the person and the situation.
Yes, cognitive dissonance can worsen, when it does, stress and anxiety tend to increase. Usually, this is resolved by changing your behaviour, but if it makes you feel worse, you should seek medical attention.
Although cognitive dissonance is primarily psychological, it can indirectly affect physical health. The stress and anxiety that often accompany these feelings can lead to physical symptoms such as headaches, muscle tension and sleep problems. Taking care of your physical health is important.
Lavendla has psychologists and therapists available to help you move forward if you are experiencing cognitive dissonance with any situation or lifestyle change. We make the difficult easier.
Cognitive dissonance can cause stress and seeking help is a big step towards better health, deciding to work on your well-being is a positive thing. Here is an overview of the steps that are usually included in a treatment for cognitive dissonance.
The first meeting with your psychologist or therapist is an assessment to review your history and how the condition developed. You may be asked questions about your life situation, feelings, thoughts and behaviors. You may also be asked to complete assessment forms.
This is the start of the actual treatment phase, which involves exercises aimed at giving you tools to overcome and work through the problem you are suffering from. Depending on the method used, the content may differ. Acceptance and commitment therapy works more with valued direction and acceptance. Motivational interviewing can also be used.
Treatment is monitored regularly to see how well the therapy is working. If necessary, the treatment plan can be adjusted or renewed.
As the therapy comes to an end, it is time to reflect on the progress made. You will also receive a maintenance plan for how to use the tools and strategies you have learned in the future. It is important to monitor the results over time.
If you or someone close to you is seeking professional help, do not hesitate to book a session with one of our licensed psychologists or therapists.
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