Question

Hugh bought a new calculator at Staples for $125. One week later, he saw an ad from Walmart showing the same calculator on sale for $65. Hugh said to himself, "I'm glad I got my calculator at Staples; the ones at Walmart are probably defective. I don't mind having paid more for mine." Hugh's statement reflects

Answer 1

This question is missing the options. I've found the complete question online. It is as follows:

Hugh bought a new calculator at Staples for $125. One week later, he saw an ad from Walmart showing the same calculator on sale for $65. Hugh said to himself, "I'm glad I got my calculator at Staples; the ones at Walmart are probably defective. I don't mind having paid more for mine." Hugh's statement reflects ____________.

A. cognitive dissonance reduction

B. self-perception bias

C. informational influence

D. peripheral-route processing

Answer:

Hugh's statement reflects A. cognitive dissonance reduction.

Explanation:

As people, we have a need to remain in a state of cognitive consistency. That helps us function in the real world. Cognitive consistency is the state we are in when our beliefs and behaviors or attitudes are in harmony. On the other hand, cognitive dissonance takes place when we realize our beliefs are in contrast with our behaviors. When that happens, we feel a mental discomfort and, in order to reduce that discomfort, we try to restore balance by justifying our actions.

That is the case with Hugh. He realized he could have bought a new calculator for much less. That realization made him uncomfortable because he probably believes, like most people do, that it is better to save money. However, to reduce this cognitive dissonance, he justifies his action by saying the expensive calculator is probably much better than the cheap one.