Lecture Script: In today's lecture, we will delve into the intriguing field of psychology by examining the concept of cognitive dissonance. Cognitive dissonance refers to the discomfort experienced when holding conflicting beliefs or attitudes simultaneously. For example, imagine a person who considers themselves environmentally conscious but frequently uses single-use plastics. This inconsistency can lead to psychological discomfort, prompting individuals to either change their behavior or rationalize their actions. Key Points: - Cognitive dissonance causes discomfort due to conflicting beliefs or attitudes. - Example: A person experiencing cognitive dissonance between environmental values and plastic use. Sample Answer: Cognitive dissonance, a psychological phenomenon, entails feeling uneasy when our beliefs clash. For instance, when one values the environment yet uses single-use plastics, it creates discomfort. This conflict may drive individuals to adjust their actions or justify their behavior to alleviate the mental strain.