Which of the following characterizes Cognitive Dissonance?

(A) Dissonance often occurs in situations involving forced compliance

(B) Attempts to resolve dissonance are reflected in increased cortical activity

(C) Dissonance cannot be reduced directly but only by adding cognitions that justify our behaviours

(D) Dissonance is stronger when we have little justification for our attitude – inconsistent behaviour

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:-

1. A(A), (B) and (C) only
2. B(A), (B) and (D) only
3. C(B), (C) and (D) only
4. D(A), (B), (C) and (D) only

Pick an option to check yourself, or open the answer below.

Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: B. (A), (B) and (D) only

Explanation

Dissonance is common after forced compliance, is stronger with low justification, and is linked to increased (left frontal) cortical activity. It can also be reduced directly by changing an attitude, so C is wrong.