Cognitive dissonance is the psychological discomfort we feel when we hold two conflicting beliefs or when our behaviour contradicts our values.
For example, if someone values health but smokes, they may feel tension. To reduce it, they might justify smoking (“It relaxes me”) or change their behaviour (quit smoking).
Cognitive dissonance explains why people sometimes rationalise actions that don’t align with their values. Recognising it can motivate positive change, but it can also lead to self-deception if people choose justification over change.