Cognitive dissonance: Definition, effects, and examples

Morphine inhibits LTP of neurons that exhibit inhibitory control of neural activity via the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) (Nugent and Kauer, 2008). Inhibition of GABA activity could lead to an overall increase in neural activity throughout the brain, https://ecosoberhouse.com/ which might lead to the formation of stronger associations than would normally occur, including maladaptive drug-context associations. In CBT for addictive behaviours cognitive strategies are supported by several behavioural strategies such as coping skills.

• But because we want the benefits of presenting ourselves a certain way, we don’t mind the inconsistency in our behavior.
• A reward system was implemented to incentivize the participants further to provide honest and thoughtful responses.
• In the 1950s laboratory experiments on cognitive dissonance, participants had to complete a series of boring tasks.
• Cognitive dissonance also had a positive impact on discontinuous usage intentions, again moderated by self-efficacy.
• However, its application in the field of information systems has been limited until recent years.

What Influences Cognitive Dissonance?

Many experiments have established that, as learning takes place, selected neurons increase their levels of activity and form new connections, or strengthen established connections, with networks of other neurons. Moreover, experimental techniques that prevent neuronal activity and networking inhibit learning. Social skills training (SST) incorporates a wide variety of interpersonal dimensions15. SST is particularly useful when patients return to drinking due to social pressures. Patients may also require communication skills to deal with interpersonal conflicts. Since addiction creates a chemical dependency on a substance — whether it’s nicotine or sugar — this kind of dissonance can be hard to shake.

Conflicts of Interest

Friends and relatives who learn that an addict holds a negative view of drug (or behavior) and is motivated to quit may be surprised to learn of a sudden shift in preference for the drug. Not understanding one’s emotional needs drives individuals to repeatedly choose partners who provide short-term satisfaction. The allure of chemistry may lead them to prioritize immediate gratification over long-term compatibility. However, through self-awareness and reflection, individuals can navigate their desires and cultivate relationships that are both thrilling and fulfilling. Studies indicate that when making decisions, our brains rapidly spin justifications for our choices, often without extended thought.

What is cognitive dissonance and how do you reduce it?

Prenatal exposures to a number of other drugs have significant deleterious effects on cognition and behavior that may not rise to the level of mental retardation. In one study, 5-year-olds whose mothers had used alcohol, cocaine, and/or opiates while pregnant ranked below unexposed controls in language skills, impulse control, and visual attention. There were no significant differences between the two groups of children in intelligence, visual/manual dexterity, or sustained attention; however, both groups placed below the normative means on these measures (Pulsifer et al., 2008). Another study documented memory deficits in 10-year-old children who had been exposed prenatally to alcohol or marijuana (Richardson et al., 2002). Various psychological factors were significant in initiating and maintaining Rajiv’s dependence on alcohol.

These variables are essential in developing distress tolerance and reducing impulsivity, which are important variables in relapse process. With over 15 years of content experience, Allaya Cooks Campbell has written for outlets such as ScaryMommy, HRzone, and HuffPost. In Psychology and is a certified yoga instructor as well as a certified Integrative Wellness & Life Coach. But sometimes, we have feelings of dissonance and we don’t understand — or can’t trace — where they came from. In cases like these or for more complex changes, you’ll benefit from additional accountability and support.

Our brains rely on patterns, past experiences, and mental shortcuts to process information quickly. That means that when we take in new information, we don’t interpret it objectively. Because the task wasn’t validated by a sufficient monetary reward, they made up an internal motivation that justified the lie. In the cognitive dissonance and addiction 1950s laboratory experiments on cognitive dissonance, participants had to complete a series of boring tasks. They were then given either $1 or $20 to tell a person in the waiting room that the task was fun. In order to explain this phenomenon, psychologist Leon Festinger presented the idea of cognitive dissonance.

Early Studies of Cognitive Dissonance

• Second, the study used a cross-sectional survey design with a single source of data, which limits the ability to establish causality and the changes in discontinuous usage intentions over time.
• But you can feel caught off guard when those values and beliefs are shaken by social pressures, the presence of new information or having to make a rushed last-minute decision.
• This internal conflict is resolved when the fox decides that the grapes do not look delicious after all.

The Psychological Struggle of Addictive Behaviors

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