Final answer:
Cognitive dissonance is the subject of this question. It refers to the discomfort caused by conflicting beliefs, attitudes, or behaviors. People aim to reduce this discomfort through nonrational means.
Step-by-step explanation:
The subject of this question is Psychology. The concept described in the question is known as cognitive dissonance.
Cognitive dissonance refers to the discomfort caused by holding conflicting beliefs, attitudes, or behaviors that contradict one's positive self-perceptions.
This discrepancy leads to psychological discomfort, which motivates individuals to reduce or remove the dissonance through nonrational means.
An example of cognitive dissonance is when someone believes smoking is harmful but continues to smoke. They experience conflict between their belief and behavior, leading to cognitive dissonance.