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Struggling to make decisions about something you know isn't good for you? Does it cause stress and anxiety? Sometimes we act against our values, causing cognitive dissonance. Here's how to get help.
What is cognitive dissonance?
Cognitive dissonance is a psychological phenomenon that occurs when an individual experiences an internal conflict between their thoughts, beliefs, attitudes or behaviours. It usually happens 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 changes 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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Example of cognitive dissonance
An example of cognitive dissonance could be a person who smokes despite knowing that it is harmful to their health. The internal conflict between knowing that smoking is dangerous and continuing to smoke can create a sense of discomfort.
To reduce dissonance, the person can either change their behaviour (stop smoking) or change their beliefs (rationalize their behaviour by thinking that the health effects may not be so severe).
Festinger and the theory of cognitive dissonance
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 unpleasant dissonance leads to attempts to reduce it by changing beliefs and behaviours or rationalizing the inconsistency. Festinger’s theory has been critical in social psychology and behavioural change.
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Symptoms of cognitive dissonance
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:
- Feeling of discomfort: A general feeling of discomfort or anxiety when confronted with two conflicting thoughts, beliefs, attitudes or behaviours
- Rationalization: Attempting to rationalize or explain away conflicting behaviours or beliefs, often by creating new excuses or explanations
- Denial: Ignoring or denying information or evidence that contradicts one’s own beliefs or behaviours
- Inner conflict: Feeling pulled in different directions by conflicting opinions or desire.
- Self-criticism: Increased self-criticism, guilt or shame around specific actions or decisions that contradict one’s own values or self-perception
- Worry and stress: Feelings of worry and stress about not being consistent in one’s thinking or actions
- Attitudinal changes: changing one’s beliefs or attitudes to reduce dissonance
These symptoms are not always immediately obvious and can sometimes be subtle. Cognitive dissonance is a natural part of human behavior and everyone experiences it at some point, but its impact varies by person and situation.
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When to seek help?
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.
Dealing with cognitive dissonance
Psychological treatment is possible if you suffer from cognitive dissonance. Motivational Interviewing is a method designed specifically to create 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 behaviors, 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 help overcome cognitive dissonance and create new ways forward.
We make the difficult easier
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 the first step towards feeling better. We offer contact with experienced psychologists and therapists who can support you in this journey. Do not hesitate to contact us if you need someone to talk to.
12 FAQs about Cognitive Dissonance
What is cognitive dissonance?
Cognitive dissonance is a psychological phenomenon that occurs when an individual experiences an internal conflict between their thoughts, beliefs, attitudes or behaviours. It usually happens when a person’s actions do not align with their beliefs or values, leading to a feeling of discomfort or anxiety.
What does cognitive dissonance feel like?
Cognitive dissonance can be felt as internal stress, but it can also manifest in external behaviours. You may feel confused, ashamed, conflicted, and anxious.
Is cognitive dissonance dangerous?
On its own, cognitive dissonance is not dangerous, but it can lead to health problems such as stress and anxiety. It is essential to seek professional help if these feelings affect your everyday life.
How is cognitive dissonance treated?
Depending on the nature of the problem, treatment for cognitive dissonance can include motivational interviewing and cognitive behavioural therapy, among other approaches. It is an individual assessment and treatment.
Can cognitive dissonance be a sign of another disease?
Yes, cognitive dissonance can be a symptom of other problems such as addiction, anxiety problems, depression or underlying trauma and neuropsychiatric problems.
Can cognitive dissonance resolve itself?
Yes, it can resolve itself if you act in your desired direction.
When should I seek professional help for cognitive dissonance?
If you have a behaviour causing problems in your life and want to change it, you should seek professional help. A psychologist or psychiatrist can provide advice and treatment tailored to the individual’s needs.
Can cognitive dissonance affect work or studies?
Cognitive dissonance can have an impact on work and study performance by causing stress and decision-making anxiety. It can also lead to depression.
How common is it to experience cognitive dissonance?
Cognitive dissonance is a natural part of human behaviour; everyone experiences it at some point, but its impact varies depending on the person and the situation.
Can cognitive dissonance worsen over time?
Yes, cognitive dissonance can worsen, but 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.
Does cognitive dissonance affect physical health?
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 essential.
Where can I get help?
At Lavendla, we have psychologists and therapists who can help you move forward if you are experiencing cognitive dissonance with any situation or lifestyle change. We make the hard things easier.
Dealing with cognitive dissonance in therapy
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.
Step 1: An initial assessment session
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 behaviours. You may also be asked to complete assessment forms.
Step 2: Treatment with different techniques and tools
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 (ACT) works more with valued direction and acceptance. Motivational Interviewing can also be used.
Step 3: Monitoring and evaluation
Treatment is monitored regularly to see how the therapy is working. If necessary, the treatment plan can be adjusted or renewed.
Step 4: Ending and looking ahead
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 also 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.
If you have thoughts of self-harm or suicide, contact the SADAG helpline at 0800 456 789.
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