Cognitive dissonance is an uncomfortable feeling that occurs when an individual holds two conflicting beliefs, values, attitudes, or perceptions simultaneously. It can arise when one's actions, decisions, or behaviors are inconsistent with one's beliefs or principles. This state of conflict creates tension within an individual and motivates them to resolve it through adjustment of their beliefs or behavior. When it comes to individuals who experience cognitive dissonance regarding their sexual preferences, this may manifest in various ways. Some people may feel guilty, ashamed, confused, or embarrassed about their true desires and struggles to reconcile these feelings with their publicly expressed beliefs. Others may engage in strategies such as rationalization, denial, or justification to reduce the dissonance. In some cases, individuals may experience anxiety, depression, or even suicidal ideation due to the internal conflict between their private thoughts and public personas. The prevalence of cognitive dissonance among individuals who identify as LGBTQ+ has been extensively studied and found to be higher than those who do not.
Research suggests that heterosexual individuals also experience cognitive dissonance, albeit to a lesser extent. There are several reasons why individuals might experience cognitive dissonance related to their sexual preferences. One possible reason is social pressure. Society often places significant stigma on certain sexual identities, making it difficult for individuals to openly express their true preferences. As a result, many individuals repress their true desires and conform to societal norms, creating a sense of dissonance between what they want privately and what they believe publicly. Another reason is personal identity. Individuals may hold conflicting beliefs about themselves and their sexuality, leading to cognitive dissonance.
Someone may view themselves as straight but secretly fantasize about having sex with someone of the same gender, creating a tension between their self-perception and their erotic desires.
Individuals may experience cognitive dissonance when they feel a sense of obligation to live up to society's expectations, particularly if they come from conservative backgrounds or communities.
How do individuals experience cognitive dissonance when their lived sexual preferences diverge from their publicly expressed beliefs?
Cognitive dissonance is experienced by individuals who are aware of their private sexual preferences and have contradicted those with what they claim in public. When an individual's attitudes towards sex differ between his or her personal life and social identity, there exists a mental conflict that causes anxiety and stress.