Bias and Prejudice — Unit test

Question 7 • CMS 2025-2026 Psychology INITIAL CREDIT (Full Course)

How can cognitive dissonance help to reduce unconsciously prejudiced or discriminatory behavior?

Answer

Cognitive dissonance creates a tension between the intentions and the actions that the individual is motivated to reduce by changing one’s behavior.

Cognitive dissonance creates a space in which discriminatory behavior is impossible, leading to a gradual reduction in those behaviors in every part of life.

Cognitive dissonance creates an excuse to change behavior that may be socially acceptable yet prejudiced without giving any reason for others to doubt one’s sincerity.

Cognitive dissonance creates an inclusive environment around the individual in which all parties, no matter their affiliations, are welcome to behave in a neutral manner.

Explanation

Cognitive dissonance is the discomfort people feel when their actions conflict with their beliefs or intentions. For example, someone who intends to treat people fairly may feel tension after acting in a prejudiced way, which can motivate them to change their behavior. Choice A describes this process; dissonance does not make discriminatory behavior impossible or automatically create an inclusive environment.

AI-written and checked against the verified answer.

More from this Course

Unit Test

Bias and Prejudice

Cumulative Exam