Question

In an attempt to use _________ to convince people to stop smoking, government officials have proposed removing all brand identification from packs of cigarettes, replacing it with graphic images of damaged lungs and cancerous mouths.

Answer 1

This question is missing the options. I've found them online. They are the following:

A. response reinforcing

B. dissonance

C. balance

D. feedback

E. fear appeal

Answer:

In an attempt to use B. dissonance to convince people to stop smoking, government officials have proposed removing all brand identification from packs of cigarettes, replacing it with graphic images of damaged lungs and cancerous mouths.

Explanation:

It is natural for us to try to remain in a state of cognitive consistency in order to function mentally in the real world. Cognitive consistency is a state of harmony between our beliefs and our behaviors. On the other hand, cognitive dissonance is the discomfort we feel when our beliefs and behaviors are not in harmony. That happens when we receive new information that goes against our previous belief.

By replacing brand identification with graphic images or damaged lungs, officials are trying to provoke cognitive dissonance in smokers. Once they see the pictures and receive the information that smoking is the cause behind those diseases, they begin to question their own behavior. Suddenly, smoking may feel less enjoyable, since they are aware that their actions are causing them to get sick.