Suppose you meet two graduates from the same college. Both Sasha and A'amer graduated and had virtually identical GPAs in the same major. However, you notice that Sasha talks much more positively about his experience at the school and says he regularly donates to the annual alumni fund. Given what you know about dissonance theory, you would expect that Sasha _______ while A'amer _________.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Dissonance theory suggests that when people feel inconsistent with their attitudes and behavior, they experience cognitive dissonance. Sasha's positive attitude and regular donations to the alumni fund are consistent with his experience at the college, creating cognitive consistency. A'amer, who has the same academic record but does not speak as positively about his experience or donate regularly, may feel cognitive dissonance, as his behavior (not donating) is inconsistent with his attitude (positive thoughts about the college). This dissonance may cause him to work harder in other areas to compensate for the inconsistency. Therefore, option C is the best choice as it suggests that A'amer may have worked harder to earn his degree to make up for his cognitive dissonance.

Suppose You Meet Two Graduates from the Same College