Festinger and Carlsmith (1959) performed an experiment in which subjects were asked to lie to a "fellow student" for either $1 or $20. For subjects in the $1 condition, dissonance was created by the cognitions "I am an ethical person" and "I have told a lie." Based on the results of this study, which of the following statements best expresses how subjects probably reduced this dissonance?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The most effective way for the subjects to reduce this dissonance is to change their attitude towards the lie they told. By convincing themselves that what they said was actually true, they can reconcile their behavior with their belief that they are ethical people. This is known as cognitive dissonance reduction through self-justification. Option B justifies the lie rather than reducing dissonance, Option C may not be applicable to all individuals, and Option D is counter-productive towards reducing dissonance.

Festinger and Carlsmith (1959) Performed an Experiment in Which Subjects