Question

How do theories of cognitive dissonance explain why certain people may be attracted to some information while they avoid other information? Explain.

Short answer

Cognitive dissonance is the discomfort experienced when holding contradicting beliefs, leading one to favor information that aligns with existing beliefs and avoid information that could increase dissonance. For example, a climate change believer may selectively choose information supporting their belief while ignoring contrary information.

Step-by-step solution

Definition of Cognitive Dissonance

Cognitive dissonance is a psychological theory proposed by Leon Festinger that suggests discomfort often arises when an individual holds two or more contradicting beliefs, values, or attitudes simultaneously, or when new information conflicts with existing beliefs, attitudes, or behaviors. This discomfort influences the individual to change their beliefs, attitudes, or behaviors to reduce the dissonance and restore balance.

Impact on Information Preference

Theories of cognitive dissonance propose that people tend to seek consistency in their beliefs and attitudes. When there's an inconsistency, people will actively avoid situations or reject new information that could potentially increase the dissonance. Thus, an individual will be more attracted to information that aligns with their existing beliefs, attitudes, or behaviors to avoid the uncomfortable dissonance.

Examples of Cognitive Dissonance Influence

For instance, a person who believes in climate change might actively seek out information supporting the detrimental effects of global warming while avoiding articles that downplay that perspective. Similarly, a hefty smoker might avoid research showcasing the harmful effects of smoking and instead focus on readings that show its calming effects or the difficulty of quitting to further support their behavior.

Key concepts

Belief Systems

Belief systems are the frameworks through which individuals interpret the world around them. They are composed of interconnected ideas, values, and opinions shaped by personal experiences, culture, and societal norms.

People tend to seek out information that aligns with their belief systems, making them feel more confident and secure in their understanding of the world. This tendency is reflected in the theory of cognitive dissonance, where individuals gravitate toward data and ideas that reinforce their existing views while avoiding conflicting information.

An individual's belief system acts as a filtering mechanism; it prioritizes consistency and coherence. As a result, when presented with new evidence, people assess whether the information integrates with or contradicts their beliefs. If it aligns, they embrace it; if not, they might dismiss or rationalize it.

• This selective exposure helps people mitigate uncomfortable psychological tension.
• They protect their self-concept and worldview from being destabilized by disconfirming evidence.

Information Processing

Information processing is how the brain interprets and integrates data from the environment. It’s a crucial part of how we form, confirm, or adjust our beliefs systems.

Cognitive dissonance plays a significant role in this process. When new information conflicts with our existing beliefs, our minds engage in a complex dance of adjustment. We either assimilate the new information into our belief system or reject and ignore it to avoid cognitive discomfort.

\[ \text{New Data + Pre-existing Beliefs = Mental Reconciliation} \]

The human brain prefers stability. Thus, we are inclined to disregard information that threatens our mental harmony. Consequently, the way information is processed is heavily influenced by personal biases and emotions.

• Emotions can color our ability to process information objectively.
• Cognitive bias leads to a preference for data that confirms what we already "know" to be true.

Psychological Discomfort

Psychological discomfort arises when there is a dissonance between what we believe and what we encounter. This discomfort, as posited by the theory of cognitive dissonance, motivates individuals to strive for harmony and reduce tension.

Engaging in activities or holding beliefs that clash with self-awareness leads to unease. This drive to resolve disharmony can manifest in several ways, such as changing attitudes, acquiring new beliefs, or ignoring evidence to align the external and internal state of the individual.

• Behavior change is a common way to diminish cognitive dissonance.
• Altering perception or denying information that conflicts with beliefs can also provide relief.

Understanding psychological discomfort in this context is key to explaining why people selectively expose themselves to certain information.

The discomfort acts as a protective mechanism, ensuring that an individual's identity remains intact, and they can function without constant conflict between reality and belief.