Psychology of Rationalization and Dissonance

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What is a primary goal of rationalization according to the content?

To clearly present each theory. (correct)

To convince others of one's beliefs.

To achieve normative rationality in behavior.

To eliminate dissonance in beliefs.

Which of the following describes the function of dissonance in rationalization?

To ensure adaptive behavior in social contexts.

To provide a mechanism for logical reasoning.

To reinforce a person's beliefs.

To create cognitive conflict when actions are incongruent with self-concept. (correct)

What does balance theory suggest about people's attitudes?

People strive for imbalance to enhance creativity.

People are indifferent to the consistency of their attitudes.

People often prioritize actions over their attitudes.

People seek harmony among their attitudes. (correct)

What aspect of rationalization does Aronson's 1968 proposal focus on?

The relationship between self-concept and dissonance. Signup and view all the answers

Why is the theory of hunger proposed to be incomplete?

It does not explain the evolution of the hunger motive. Signup and view all the answers

Which theorist is mentioned as the first to explain rationalization while overlooking its adaptive function?

Festinger Signup and view all the answers

The content states that the mechanisms we use to rationalize our behavior may not be:

Consistent with normative rationality. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of the discussion in the content?

The rationalization of action. Signup and view all the answers

How does making a choice between two equally valued items affect a person's perception of those items?

It causes them to value the chosen item more and the unchosen item less. Signup and view all the answers

What is suggested about the sources of human behavior?

They can be influenced by non-rational processes. Signup and view all the answers

What psychological phenomenon does the act of rationalization relate to?

Aversiveness of cognitive dissonance. Signup and view all the answers

In what circumstances does dissonance primarily arise?

When there are outright errors in choices. Signup and view all the answers

What is indicated by research regarding people's justifications for choices?

They tend to be detailed and elaborate. Signup and view all the answers

What ultimate purpose do adaptive non-rational influences share with reasoning?

Enhancing fitness maximization. Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential outcome if rationalization is only applied to errors?

It propagates errors into beliefs and desires. Signup and view all the answers

How does cognitive dissonance affect individuals psychologically?

It leads to discomfort when faced with contradictions. Signup and view all the answers

What unique challenge does Jason Bourne face in his life?

He has lost his memory and identity. Signup and view all the answers

How does Bourne begin to understand his identity and abilities?

By observing his automatic actions. Signup and view all the answers

What kinds of skills does Bourne possess that are useful to a clandestine agent?

He is fluent in multiple languages and proficient with weapons. Signup and view all the answers

What parallels are drawn between Jason Bourne's experiences and those of ordinary people?

Both struggle with understanding what to believe and value. Signup and view all the answers

What does the phrase 'reverse-engineer the design principles of our automatic actions' suggest?

Understanding one’s abilities and behaviors through reflection. Signup and view all the answers

Why might viewers find it captivating to watch Jason Bourne's story?

His struggles reflect deeper human experiences. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following actions does Bourne perform mindlessly?

Checking and handling a gun. Signup and view all the answers

What overarching theme is explored through Bourne's journey?

The value of self-discovery and understanding. Signup and view all the answers

What motivates people to achieve consonance according to the theory of cognitive dissonance?

The aversive feeling of dissonance Signup and view all the answers

In a scenario where someone desires cookies but believes they are in the kitchen and ends up in the living room, which of the following adjustments exemplifies rationalization?

Deciding not to want cookies Signup and view all the answers

Which method is commonly used to demonstrate the effects of rationalization in cognitive dissonance?

Free choice paradigm Signup and view all the answers

What is the consequence of adjusting beliefs or desires after a past action according to the principles of cognitive dissonance?

Achieving coherence without improvement Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the concept of 'network repair' in the context of cognitive dissonance?

Aligning interrelated beliefs and desires Signup and view all the answers

What are the two main pillars of the cognitive dissonance theory as described?

Change in preferences and beliefs Signup and view all the answers

In cases of dissonance, what does the individual primarily strive for?

Cognitive consistency Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential outcome of the rationalization process related to cognitive dissonance?

A distortion of reality Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of rationalization in behavioral processes?

To extract useful information from non-rational systems Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following mechanisms contributes to norm internalization?

Observing others' actions that reflect real dangers Signup and view all the answers

During habitization, which change occurs in choices?

Choices that were effortful become automatic Signup and view all the answers

What relationship exists between distinct mechanisms of behavioral control and representational exchange?

They provide different representations and guidance for action Signup and view all the answers

Which concept describes our instinctive reaction to dangerous scenarios, such as recoiling from a precipice?

Instinctive behavior Signup and view all the answers

Why is rationalization considered a useful fiction?

It helps in inferring beliefs and desires from observed behavior Signup and view all the answers

What is one common outcome of norm-based food taboos as discussed?

They reflect genuine dangers associated with certain foods Signup and view all the answers

What does the process of rationalization allow information to flow into?

From non-rational systems into rational ones Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus in managing representational exchange among decision-making systems?

Achieving the optimal balance of various demands Signup and view all the answers

In the context of representational exchange, when is it beneficial to approximate rather than be exact?

When efficiency is prioritized over accuracy Signup and view all the answers

How does representational exchange make an organism more biologically fit?

By enhancing the efficiency of decision-making Signup and view all the answers

What does efficiency in decision-making depend on?

A balance between accuracy and effort Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best exemplifies the continual demand in representational exchange?

Adjusting representations based on learning and changing circumstances Signup and view all the answers

What role does sharing information play in representational exchange?

It provides more controlled and flexible options Signup and view all the answers

What does it mean to be 'satisfied with an approximation' in decision-making?

Settling for a quicker decision over a longer deliberation Signup and view all the answers

When is it indicated to represent specifics rather than generalities?

When the situation demands high accuracy Signup and view all the answers