Final answer:
Personal beliefs that influence behavior in a situation are known as values, which form the basis for attitudes that can be positive or negative and consist of affective, behavioral, and cognitive components. Cognitive dissonance can arise when there is conflict among these elements, leading to a change in behavior, attitudes, or beliefs.
Step-by-step explanation:
Personal beliefs about the worth of an object, idea, custom, or attitude that influence a person's behavior in a given situation are referred to as values. Values signify judgments about the way people ought to think, feel, or act based on what is good, worthwhile, or important. For instance, someone might believe that honesty is vital, influencing how they interact in situations requiring truthfulness.
Our attitudes are affected by our personal beliefs and can be favorable or unfavorable. They have three components: the affective component (feelings), the behavioral component (the effect of the attitude on behavior), and the cognitive component (belief and knowledge). These attitudes can lead to actions consistent with them, such as choosing to purchase a product that aligns with one's ecological values.
It is also important to understand the concept of cognitive dissonance, which arises when our beliefs, attitudes, or behaviors are in conflict, pushing us to alter one or more to minimize discomfort. External forces like conformity, compliance, and obedience can also shape our values and attitudes, though we have the power to change them consciously.