Examples Of Cognitive Dissonance Theory

Cognitive dissonance is defined as the state of having inconsistent thoughts, beliefs, or attitudes, especially as relating to behavioral decisions and attitude change. Dr. Davis’s theory supports this because he discusses the desire to exploit and justify the exploitation. He uses examples such as the historical experiences of the Africans and the Native Americans in regards to their land. Davis states that “once the civil laws prohibited some blatant forms of racial discrimination in areas such as public facilities and housing, people were compelled to obey these laws and, in doing so, they engaged in far less discriminatory behavior” (Davis, p.45). He also states that he believes laws can often change attitudes as seen in my aforementioned

example. Dr. Davis’s theory of cognitive dissonance made me view discrimination in a different light. I agree that laws can often change attitudes and behaviors as seen in the past. I also think that society can impact cognitive dissonance; for example Dr. Davis’s theory on exploitation of others. Many times exploitation of others is done by groups or societies instead of individuals. People typically feel empowered when with a large group whether they agree with the group’s intentions or not. When people feel comfortable with a group, often times they will make behavioral decisions that do not coincide with their individual attitudes or beliefs.

Intersectionality is complex and implies that people can be privileged in some ways but oppressed in others.

Exposing multiple characteristics of a person can help clarify ways in which a person can simultaneously experience privilege and oppression. An individual may be privileged based on one characteristic in a particular situation, but oppressed in a different situation. Examining intersectionality has made me more aware of privilege in different and varying situations. When I think of intersectionality I often think of times that I spend counseling addicts in various situations. I am there to help and support in every possible aspect but often times I hear “you have never experienced addiction, how can you understand what I am going through?” This is a form of intersectionality and oppression. My clients believe that that I am using my power and education to counsel them and that I do not have any real life experiences therefore I cannot relate; which in a sense is true. I cannot relate to what addicts go through as I have never struggled with addiction myself. Many people in recovery want validation and understanding from someone who has been through what they may have experienced or are experiencing. I have not been through any form of addiction therefore I use my education and training to assist them in all ways possible. It also related because any individuals of a 12 step program could be part of a hierarchy within their group or program but still be oppressed within

society.

Race is a social construct without biological implication therefore there is no specific gene common to different races. I am “privileged” by race as we thoroughly discussed in the previous module. The many previous examples of “white is right” affect me as a Caucasian women. As discussed in module 2 and the demonstrations that white is normative, whether I agree or not, it is the normative based on Caucasian skin.