You've always disliked a particular coworker who strikes you as dishonest, but he is nice to you and does you favors, so you become friendly with him despite your misgivings. One day you learn that he stole personal items from your desk. You now decide to discontinue the friendship. Your negative attitude toward this coworker is strengthened through ________.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Reduction of cognitive dissonance occurs when you change your attitude or behavior to reduce the discomfort of holding conflicting beliefs, such as disliking someone but being friendly with them. Discovering the theft aligns with your initial negative belief, reducing dissonance.

You've Always Disliked a Particular Coworker Who Strikes You as Dishonest