Psychology MCAT Practice Exam

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What does cognitive dissonance refer to?

Accepting two conflicting beliefs
Changing behavior to align with personal beliefs
Holding two incompatible thoughts that cause tension
Desiring to change external circumstances

The correct answer is: Holding two incompatible thoughts that cause tension

Cognitive dissonance refers to the psychological discomfort or tension that arises when an individual holds two conflicting beliefs, attitudes, or values simultaneously. This state of dissonance creates an urge to resolve the inconsistency, resulting in mental discomfort. In this context, the correct identification of cognitive dissonance as the holding of incompatible thoughts emphasizes the internal struggle one experiences when facing opposing ideas and the need to reconcile them to achieve psychological harmony. The other options relate to concepts in psychology but do not encapsulate the essence of cognitive dissonance as accurately as the correct choice. Accepting two conflicting beliefs suggests a passive recognition without emphasizing the tension associated with the conflict. Changing behavior to align with personal beliefs reflects a potential outcome of experiencing dissonance but doesn't define the state itself. Lastly, desiring to change external circumstances may be a reaction to dissonance but does not inherently clarify the internal conflict and psychological tension that cognitive dissonance truly represents.