Trait Approach Motivation Relates to Dissonance Reduction Academic Article uri icon

abstract

  • Over 50 years of work on cognitive dissonance theory has suggested that dissonance reduction is a motivated process. However, no research has unambiguously demonstrated the direction of this motivationwhether it is approach or avoidance oriented. The action-based model of dissonance proposes that dissonance reduction is an approach-related process that assists in the implementation of decisions. It follows from the action-based model that approach-related personality traits should be related to greater dissonance reduction. The current research tested this idea. Study 1 found that trait behavioral approach sensitivity (BAS) related to more spreading of alternatives (more liking for the chosen over the rejected decision alternative) following a difficult decision. Study 2 found that BAS related to attitudes being more consistent with recent induced compliance behavior. This research therefore suggests that dissonance reduction is an approach-motivated process.

published proceedings

  • SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGICAL AND PERSONALITY SCIENCE

author list (cited authors)

  • Harmon-Jones, C., Schmeichel, B. J., Inzlicht, M., & Harmon-Jones, E.

citation count

  • 44

complete list of authors

  • Harmon-Jones, Cindy||Schmeichel, Brandon J||Inzlicht, Michael||Harmon-Jones, Eddie

publication date

  • January 2011