Tag: cognitive-dissonance

Cognitive Dissonance: Why the Mind Sometimes Protects Us from Painful Truths

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In 1957, psychologist Leon Festinger introduced the theory of cognitive dissonance, proposing that people experience psychological discomfort when they simultaneously hold two or more beliefs, values, or perceptions that contradict one another. The human brain strives for consistency. When our beliefs and our experiences do not match, the resulting tension can feel deeply uncomfortable. Rather than immediately changing… Read More Cognitive Dissonance: Why the Mind Sometimes Protects Us from Painful Truths

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What is Cognitive Dissonance?

What is Cognitive Dissonance? Cognitive dissonance is a psychological state where a person holds two or more conflicting thoughts, beliefs, or values, creating mental discomfort. To reduce this discomfort, people often justify, minimize, or rationalize their conflicting beliefs rather than change them. In an abusive relationship, cognitive dissonance occurs when the victim experiences both love and fear toward… Read More What is Cognitive Dissonance?

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