In light of the research on cognitive dissonance theory, what is the BEST explanation for the role of large, expensive marriage ceremonies?
A)Such ceremonies probably strengthen partners' commitment due to effort justification but do not contribute to specific marriage-consistent behaviours.
B)Such ceremonies probably discourage specific marriage-inconsistent behaviours such as cheating due to the involvement of friends and family but do not contribute to overall commitment.
C)Such ceremonies probably strengthen partners' commitment due to effort justification AND probably discourage marriage-inconsistent behaviours such as cheating due to the involvement of friends and family.
D)Such ceremonies probably DO NOT strengthen partners' commitment due to effort justification and probably DO NOT discourage marriage-inconsistent behaviours such as cheating due to the involvement of friends and family.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

According to cognitive dissonance theory, people tend to justify the effort and expense they put into a decision or behaviour, including their marriage ceremony. Therefore, having a large, expensive marriage ceremony may increase the commitment of the partners due to the effort they have put into the event. Additionally, the involvement of friends and family in the ceremony may discourage marriage-inconsistent behaviours such as cheating, as the couple is more accountable to the people who witnessed their commitment. Therefore, option C is the best explanation.

In Light of the Research on Cognitive Dissonance Theory, What