Cognitive Dissonance - Psychology Definition of the Week

Definition: What happens when new information conflicts with a previously existing belief? While we tend to seek consistency between our beliefs, our behaviors and our experience, you can probably think of a few instances where people behave in ways that are contrary to their own beliefs.

In psychology, cognitive dissonance refers to the feelings of discomfort and unease that arise when there is a discrepancy between our beliefs and behaviors. Learn more and find examples in this overview of cognitive dissonance.

_{Image courtesy Piotr Bizior}