Final answer:
Cognitive dissonance is psychological discomfort that arises from a conflict of a person's behaviors, attitudes, or beliefs that runs counter to one's positive self-perception.
Step-by-step explanation:
Cognitive dissonance is psychological discomfort that arises from a conflict of a person's behaviors, attitudes, or beliefs that runs counter to one's positive self-perception. This term was defined by psychologist Leon Festinger in 1957. Cognitive dissonance occurs when individuals experience a conflict between their thoughts, attitudes, or behaviors that is inconsistent with their positive self-image. For example, if someone believes that smoking is bad for their health but continues to smoke, they may experience cognitive dissonance.