Dissonance theory suggests that people ________ their attitudes as a result of dissonance, whereas self-perception theory suggests that people ________ their attitudes from observing their behaviors.
A) infer; change
B) change; infer
C) strengthen; weaken
D) change; change

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Dissonance theory proposes that when individuals have inconsistent beliefs, attitudes, or behaviors, they experience psychological discomfort, or dissonance. This discomfort motivates people to change their attitudes or behaviors to restore consistency and reduce the dissonance. On the other hand, self-perception theory suggests that people infer their attitudes from their behavior. That is, people observe their actions and make inferences about their internal state, such as their attitudes, emotions, or beliefs. Therefore, according to this theory, people may change their attitudes if they observe themselves engaging in certain behaviors, but not necessarily because of dissonance.

Dissonance Theory Suggests That People ________ Their Attitudes as a Result