On numerous occasions in the past, Destiny had strongly advocated alternative energy sources and less reliance on fossil fuels. So, her friend Sara was surprised to see Destiny drive up in a large gas-guzzling SUV. Sara asked, "So, Destiny, how do you guys like your new SUV?" Without a moment's hesitation, Destiny replied, "You know, we really needed a bigger vehicle to haul the kids and all their soccer stuff around. And I sure don't have any problems fitting all the grocery sacks in the back!" Destiny's change in attitude to match her behavior reflects which of the following concepts?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Destiny's change in attitude to match her behavior reflects cognitive dissonance, which is the discomfort or psychological stress experienced by a person who holds two or more contradictory beliefs or values at the same time, or is confronted by new information that conflicts with existing beliefs or values. In this case, Destiny's behavior (buying a gas-guzzling SUV) contradicts her previously held belief (advocating for alternative energy sources and less reliance on fossil fuels), which creates cognitive dissonance. To resolve this dissonance, she changes her attitude (justifying the purchase by focusing on practical reasons like the need for a bigger vehicle and more storage space).

On Numerous Occasions in the Past, Destiny Had Strongly Advocated