What is self-affirmation in the context of cognitive dissonance?

Self-affirmation in the context of cognitive dissonance refers to the process where an individual reminds themselves of their positive attributes, values, or accomplishments. This occurs particularly when they experience discomfort from holding contradictory beliefs or engaging in behavior that conflicts with their self-image. The purpose of self-affirmation is to alleviate the cognitive dissonance by reinforcing a positive self-concept, thereby reducing the psychological tension that arises when one’s beliefs and behaviors do not align.

By focusing on their strengths or previous successes, individuals can maintain a sense of self-worth, which allows them to manage the discomfort of dissonance without necessarily having to modify their beliefs or behaviors immediately. This process can be beneficial in promoting resilience and aiding in coping mechanisms when faced with conflicting information or personal failures.