Cognitive Dissonance Theory_ Cognitive Consequences of Forced Compliance (Festinger & Carlsmith, 1959)

Cognitive Dissonance Theory

A theory that proposes that if a person publicly states a belief contrary to their private opinion, they may change their opinion to align with their actions.

Dissonance (D)

The sum of all dissonances in the context of cognitive dissonance theory, representing a conflict between a person's beliefs and actions.

Consonance (C)

The sum of all consonances which indicates agreement or harmony between beliefs and actions in cognitive dissonance theory.

Total Magnitude of Dissonance (TMD)

Calculated as D/(D+C), showing the degree of dissonance present based on pressures inducing statements contrary to personal beliefs.

Festinger & Carlsmith (1959)

Researchers who conducted studies on cognitive dissonance, analyzing how external pressures can influence personal beliefs and statements.

Self-convincing effect

The phenomenon where individuals convince themselves of an opinion or argument, often through mental rehearsal after presenting a contrary view.

Overt behavior

Behavior that is observable and can be influenced by external pressures, often resulting in cognitive dissonance when it contradicts private beliefs.

Reward and punishment influence

The concept that greater rewards or punishments can reduce the magnitude of dissonance felt by individuals after acting against their personal beliefs.

$1 vs $20 condition in experiments

In cognitive dissonance research, subjects offered $1 experienced higher dissonance compared to those who were offered $20, indicating reduced opinion change with increased reward.

Laboratory Experiment

A controlled experimental setting used to test hypotheses related to cognitive dissonance, where subjects reported their opinions after engaging in a boring task.