Cognitive dissonance theory further centers on the idea that people strive for consistency between their cognitions, and that they apply a variety of methods to achieve it. Consistency between cognitions and actions is most common, but it cognitive dissonance and addiction is easy to find examples of inconsistent cognitions (Festinger, 1957). Importantly, a person holding dissonant cognitions only rarely experiences them psychologically as inconsistent in the long term. Instead, more or less successful attempts are made to explain or rationalize them, thereby reducing dissonance.

• Linder, Cooper & Jones (1967) suspected that some of the changes made in Rosenberg’s replication were not trivial, but vitally important.
• From psychoanalytic approaches to cognitive and behavioral interventions, clients find themselves in a situation much like participants in Aronson & Mills’ (1959) classic effort justification experiment.
• It can also shed light on dynamics in other realms of life, such as relationships and education.

Control of: behavior, information, thought, emotion

Most of the time we are successful at this and thus most of the time we are not in a dissonant state. However, sometimes we notice that the consequences of our behavior are unwanted or negative. This happens in the real world and, with proper stagecraft, can be made to happen in the research laboratory. When we realize that we have brought about negative events, we are traveling on the road toward dissonance.

The Psychological Perspective of Equity Theory

• The formula conveys that the greater the amount or importance of dissonant cognitions and the smaller the number or importance of consonant elements the greater the magnitude of dissonance one experiences.
• Drawing on supporting evidence and the theoretical framework of cognitive dissonance (e.g. Wills, 1981; Festinger, 1962)) the effects of inequitable relations and the ways to cope with them were proposed (Walster, Berscheid & Walster, 1973; Adams, 1963; Adams & Freedman, 1976).
• In social groups, members experience an intersubjectivity with other members of their group and feel as one with those members.

Adams’ groundbreaking work was influenced by previous research on motivation and fairness, such as the early studies of Kurt Lewin and J. Stacy Adams’ research built upon these earlier findings and expanded the understanding of fairness in social exchange. Over the years, scholars have further refined and expanded the theory, examining its applications in various contexts and exploring the underlying psychological mechanisms. (a) pMFC area activated by cognitive dissonance in the ‘induced compliance’ paradigm. Adapted from Izuma, K., Matsumoto, M., Murayama, K., Samejima, K., Sadato, N., & Matsumoto, K.

Why Is There a Dissonance Drive?

We also had some participants ingest a mild stimulant and, as predicted from the drive concept, found that the increased arousal levels led to greater attitude change (Cooper, Zanna & Taves, 1978). The concept of equity theory incorporates two key elements known as ‘referents’ and ‘moderating variables’. High self-esteem individuals are more likely to advocate for equity and fairness, while low self-esteem individuals may tolerate inequities or even accept unequal treatment. Understanding the interplay between self-esteem and equity perceptions is crucial for managers and organizations seeking to create an inclusive and equitable work environment. Furthermore, Equity Theory can also influence teamwork and collaboration within an organization. When employees feel that their efforts are not being fairly acknowledged or rewarded compared to their peers, it can create tension and conflict among team members.

Festinger and Carlsmith (1959) investigated if making people perform a dull task would create cognitive dissonance through forced compliance behavior. When there is an inconsistency between attitudes or behaviors (dissonance), something must change to eliminate the dissonance. The field of social psychology has always had equal interest in theoretical advancement and practical applications of its theories. A premature application of theory into practice, however, can be risky for both uses, as such an application can lead to incorrect application of the theory because the theory was not sufficiently researched before it is applied. On the other hand, exclusive interest in theory building risks an indulgence on nuance while missing the opportunity to demonstrate the usefulness of our theoretical understanding.