When Outside Forces Clash With Our Inner Values – Understanding Cognitive Dissonance
Written by: Paul Weeden, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
In the complex world of human psychology, cognitive dissonance is a tricky concept that can lead to inner turmoil. Simply put, cognitive dissonance happens when we have conflicting beliefs, attitudes, or values. One major source of this conflict is when external authority figures start dictating what we should value and believe.
Understanding locus of evaluation: Internal vs. External
Before delving into the role of externalised authority, it's essential to understand the concept of locus of evaluation.
The humanistic psychologist Carl Rogers taught us about the inner locus and why it is important to build our self-concept and organismic self, especially if we are intent on working towards 'self-actualisation'
Abraham Maslow taught us about self-actualisation theory in his model 'Hierarchy of Needs.
This is where we get our sense of self-worth from. Some people rely on their own values and standards (that's the internal locus of evaluation), while others look to outside sources like society, partners, friends, or colleagues for validation (that's the external locus of evaluation).
A third type of person, believes their values are internal values, when in fact they are external values introduced into their self-concept unconsciously through reward and punishment.
Societies external impact
One of the consequences of the type of society we live in is this area of social and human psychology. The media and other large organisations have at times arguably become a bit like an overbearing superego or critical parent. So we can perceive the external world as constantly pushing its latest values onto us. And often, we find that this push is an emotional response to something, rather than a well-tested theory which has reached a logical conclusion over time.
An important, but potentially unpopular, example: In the 1990's we were told to convert our leaded petrol vehicles to unleaded, then we were told in the early 2000s to buy diesel vehicles, and more recently; that electric vehicles are the only real choice for sustainability in the 21st century.
However, are lithium batteries really better for the environment with the mining of lithium being more ethical and better for the environment than petroleum? Arguably not, so why are authorities insisting it is … for funding or to gain votes perhaps?
The clash with external authority
When external authority figures start heavily influencing what we value and believe, it can trigger major cognitive dissonance. This happens in various parts of life, from following society's rules to dealing with work pressures and personal relationships.
1. Cultural and Societal Norms: Society tends to impose a set of standards and values that individuals are expected to adhere to, most of the time these make sense and seem logical, but not always! And when these external norms clash with an individual's internal values, cognitive dissonance ensues. For example, If a person values making informed decisions based on personally well-researched data and history but lives in a society that promotes hearsay and emotionally compounded logical fallacies, they are likely to experience a deep sense of inner conflict. It can be challenging to decide how best to respond or if to respond at all.
2. Workplace Pressures: At work, things can get really tricky. Imagine your boss asking you to do something that goes against your ethical beliefs. That's a recipe for cognitive dissonance. It's like when media sensationalism pushes us to ignore our own morals and common sense.
3. Personal Relationships: Relationships can be a minefield too. Sometimes, we compromise our values just to fit in or make others happy. This happens when we care more about what we gain from the relationship, like status or material things, instead of connecting over shared values.
The toll on mental health
Cognitive dissonance caused by externalized authority over one's inner locus of evaluation can have severe consequences on mental health. The stress and anxiety resulting from this inner conflict can lead to a range of emotional and psychological issues, including depression, low self-esteem, anxiety and even cognitive distortions.
How to deal with cognitive dissonance
Overcoming cognitive dissonance in the face of externalized authority requires a combination of self-awareness, resilience, and a commitment to one's values. Here are some strategies that I recommend to navigate this challenging internal terrain:
1. Reflect on Your Values: Engage in introspection to identify your core values and beliefs. Understand where your inner locus of evaluation stands and what external factors are influencing it.
Practical exercises – Breath-work meditation – simply observe your breath as you breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth. This helps to create space between your thoughts, emotions and reactions.
The 8 pillars of wellness:
The 8 pillars I identified as signposts to greater self-awareness.
Please follow the link below to more about what I've written on this:
Acceptance, Surrender, Commitment, Responsibility, Forgiveness, Respect, Trust, Giving
See here.
2. Stay True to Your Values: Try to live in a way that aligns with your inner values, even if it means going against the crowd. Alternatively building connections with other more like-minded people can be more rewarding rather than continuing to focus as much attention on the past and the people we used to have more shared interests with.
3. Seek Support: Discuss your feelings and conflicts with trusted friends, family members, or mental health professionals who can provide guidance and emotional support. When seeking support, ensure it is the kind of support you need at that time, and be sure to keep your expectations of others in check. Why others accept conflicting irrational, yet popular views as fact is a complex subject. However, persuading others to do similar due diligence and use rationale over the path of least resistance, is unlikely to be successful and could be a drain on your morale and energy reserves and resources.
4. Set Boundaries: Protect your inner values by saying no to situations or relationships that go against them. Focus on investing your time and energy in activities and people who share your values. Why not invest in a really meaningful experience, like a retreat or an adventure escape holiday where we have researched that other people like you have also been? Remember, one definition of insanity is repeating the same actions, i.e. interacting with the same people and places – and expecting different results!
5. Mindfulness and Resilience: Learn techniques to manage the stress and anxiety caused by cognitive dissonance. Reflect on your values and why they're important to you. Try to understand what drives the people around you and why they value what they do.
Conclusion
Cognitive dissonance stemming from externalized authority over our inner locus of evaluation is a potent force that can affect various aspects of our lives. Recognizing this internal conflict and taking steps to address it is essential for personal growth, mental well-being, and living a life in alignment with one's true values. While navigating this internal battle may be challenging, it ultimately leads to greater authenticity and a deeper sense of self; which in my experience, feels and looks like more confidence; only caring what a few carefully selected people think about us in the wider world; letting go of expectations of those who we see evidence that they live less authentically; paying less attention to negative judgements and labels intended to persuade us in a particular direction; making greater use of our resources and skills; wasting less time on trite trivia and, of course, utilizing mindfulness.
For more reading on this fascinating subject, I thoroughly recommend – Bethany Perry’s article for Brainz magazine back in 2022. See here.
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Paul Weeden, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
Meet Paul K. Weeden, a holistic and integrative mental health therapist and coach and very excited to and honoured to be able to share and support the Brainz community. With 12 years of experience, he helps people overcome anxiety, depression, and achieve work-life balance. His journey involves self-development, exploring practices like meditation, yoga, martial arts, music, and sound, empowering countless individuals on their path to personal growth and well-being. With an MA in Music and Sonic Media and training in integrative psychotherapy and embodiment coaching, Paul takes a holistic view of healing. He combines mind, body, and soul to facilitate profound transformations in his clients' lives.
