Cognitive dissonance theory explains that attitude change occurs as a result of:
1
Distance between one's belief and behaviour
2
Reduction of the unpleasant arousal people experience while they engage in a behaviour that conflicts with their attitude.
3
A resolution of conflict by a neutral third party who studies both sides and imposes a settlement.
4
A strategy in which people create obstacles to success so that potential failure can be blamed on these external factors.