Personality and cognitive dissonance

Abstract

This theory is generally considered to originate from 1957 Festinger L. A Theory of Cognitive Dissonance. Row Peterson. Co. 1957 when Festinger's book was published although it existed in an implicit form in 1956 Festinger L. Riecken H. Schachter S. When Prophecy Fails. Minn. Pres. 1956. (and 1954 even, see note). The theory is generally grouped with quite a wide range of similar theories under the general heading of theories, of consistency. Such theories concern constructs such as 'balance' and "congruity" and they possess in common the notion that thoughts, beliefs, attitudes, and behaviour tend to organize themselves in meaningful and sensible ways. The presumption of rationality underlying human behaviour and the assumption that unbalanced states produce tension and generate a force to restore balance are also common characteristics of consistency theories. The history of such theories is interesting and unfortunately beyond the scope of this essay,at least in any detailed form. Where relevant the particular viewpoint of a theory may be related to dissonance theory in order to explain or clarify a point but the reader wishing to acquaint himself with consistency theories in general should consult the individual references or at least a detailed text.