Suppose that Janine-who volunteers for a variety of environmental causes and frequently speaks on campus about the importance of recycling-decided to buy a gas-guzzling SUV last week. When is she most likely to try to rationalize her behavior?
A)If no one she knows owns the same vehicle
B)If many people she knows own the same vehicle
C)If she did not know about the SUV's poor mileage when she bought it
D)If she experiences guilt or discomfort surrounding her purchase

Question

Suppose that Janine-who volunteers for a variety of environmental causes and frequently speaks on campus about the importance of recycling-decided to buy a gas-guzzling SUV last week. When is she most likely to try to rationalize her behavior? ​
A)If no one she knows owns the same vehicle
B)If many people she knows own the same vehicle ​
C)If she did not know about the SUV's poor mileage when she bought it ​
D)If she experiences guilt or discomfort surrounding her purchase ​

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Janine is most likely to try to rationalize her behavior if she experiences guilt or discomfort surrounding her purchase. This is because her action (buying a gas-guzzling SUV) conflicts with her beliefs and values (environmental causes and the importance of recycling), leading to cognitive dissonance. To reduce this discomfort, she might try to justify her decision.

Suppose That Janine-Who Volunteers for a Variety of Environmental Causes