What concept would explain a situation where two adversaries refuse to believe the evidence of cooperative behavior of the other side?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Cognitive dissonance explains this situation as it refers to the discomfort experienced when holding two or more conflicting cognitions, such as beliefs, attitudes, or behaviors. In this case, the refusal to believe evidence of cooperative behavior from an adversary despite evidence can be seen as an effort to reduce the discomfort associated with changing one's existing beliefs or attitudes about the adversary.

What Concept Would Explain a Situation Where Two Adversaries Refuse