What does dissonance reduction refer to?

Dissonance reduction refers specifically to the strategies individuals employ to alleviate the discomfort caused by cognitive dissonance, which occurs when a person holds two or more conflicting beliefs, values, or attitudes. When individuals experience this mental conflict, it can lead to feelings of unease or anxiety. To reduce this discomfort, they may change one of the conflicting beliefs, justify or rationalize their behavior, or seek new information that aligns with their current beliefs. This process is crucial in maintaining psychological stability and coherence in one's beliefs and actions.

In the context of cognitive dissonance theory, dissonance reduction plays a significant role. It helps people return to a state of harmony within their cognitive framework, allowing them to either modify their attitudes or behaviors or find ways to rationalize the inconsistency. This method of resolution is essential for understanding how individuals cope with conflicting information and maintain their self-concept.