Example

Example of Cognitive Dissonance: Justifying High Living Costs

An example of cognitive dissonance is seen in the case of Maria and Marco, who choose to live in the affluent and expensive Fairfield County, Connecticut, despite the significant financial hardship it causes them. The conflict between their financial struggles (renting a small house for over $3000/month, having no money for new things) and their choice to remain in a high-cost area creates dissonance. They reduce this psychological discomfort by adding new cognitions that justify their decision, focusing on the area's beauty, their love for the beaches, and the sense of comfort they feel there. These positive beliefs serve to rationalize their financially challenging choice, making it seem worthwhile.

0

1

Updated 2026-01-15

Contributors are:

Who are from:

Tags

Ch.12 Social Psychology - Psychology @ OpenStax

Psychology @ OpenStax

Introduction to Psychology @ OpenStax Course

OpenStax

OpenStax Psychology (2nd ed.) Textbook

Psychology

Social Science

Empirical Science

Science