Final answer:
Brian struggles with the change brought about by the rifle and matches, signifying a transition towards self-reliance and the capacity for violence. This change elicits a conflict within him as he grapples with the moral complexities and loss of innocence. Cognitive dissonance is a key concept in understanding this internal struggle.
Step-by-step explanation:
The change that Brian is referring to involves a transformation of character and perception that comes with new responsibility and power. The acquisition of the rifle and matches symbolizes a shift towards self-reliance and a potential for violence, which is both empowering and frightening. Brian questions the change because it confronts him with the moral complexities of survival and the potential to lose a part of his previous identity as a more innocent or non-violent person.
Interactions with guns and moments of confrontation can lead to a shift in one's sense of control or power over their environment. The act of wielding a weapon can herald a newfound sense of authority, yet it can also usher in the temptation to resolve conflicts with force. The characters grapple with the implications of this change, fearing the possible dulling of their previous moral implications.
Cognitive dissonance also plays a role in the struggle the characters face. They must reconcile the necessity of taking certain actions for survival with their previous beliefs or attitudes. A change in belief, as in the case of Joaquin, could mitigate the discomfort of cognitive dissonance and adjust one's self-perception to align with the new reality.