Cognitive dissonance is a psychological phenomenon that occurs when a person experiences conflicting beliefs, attitudes, or behaviors. This discomfort often leads individuals to change one of the conflicting elements to restore harmony. For example, if someone values health but smokes cigarettes, they may feel dissonance and either quit smoking or downplay the health risks. To reduce cognitive dissonance, people might seek justification for their actions or change their beliefs. This process can influence decision-making and behavior, as individuals strive for consistency in their thoughts and actions, ultimately impacting their overall well-being and choices.