When a new idea and new event comes along that contradicts what you have grown accustomed to accepting as accurate and true, discomfort forms in the brain and nervous system of humans. The technical term for that is Cognitive Dissonance: psychological discomfort experienced when a person simultaneously holds two conflicting beliefs, attitudes, or values. In those moments, to relieve the discomfort or pain, people often justify their actions and defend their beliefs while rejecting what the new idea, belief, or event is really indicating. Our brains like things to stay the same for stability of function. Some people react by dismissing contradictory information to reduce this discomfort, or they adjust their beliefs and exceptions to reflect the new information, idea, or event that has happened. This is often challenging. The brain and nervous system need help in learning that something different is needed to be able not to be blind to what is actually occurring.

Cognitive dissonance can lead to judgmentalism, as it creates mental tension when a person’s beliefs, values, or attitudes conflict with their actions or new information they encounter. To reduce this uncomfortable feeling, people may adjust their attitudes or behaviors or try to justify their beliefs by becoming judgmental toward others who think or act differently.

For example, if someone values being open-minded but feels threatened or challenged by a new idea, they may experience dissonance. Instead of adapting their perspective, they might resolve this dissonance by criticizing others who hold the new perspective. This can show as judgmental attitudes, as they try to convince themselves that their original beliefs are "right" and others are "wrong."

Judgmentalism is often a byproduct of cognitive dissonance reduction strategies, mainly when the discomfort is high, and someone feels unable to reconcile conflicting beliefs or actions more constructively.

To reduce Cognitive Dissonance and Judgmentalism and adjust beliefs to be in line with what is actually happening, try the following question:

The Question:

"What evidence do I have that supports or contradicts my belief?"

Ask yourself questions to loosen the grip of your fixed belief so you can discover what is happening for you in a situation.

To help manage or reduce cognitive dissonance, it's essential to encourage self-reflection and critical thinking. One practical question you can ask yourself (or someone else) is:

"What evidence do I have that supports or contradicts my belief?"

This question prompts a person to examine the validity of their beliefs by considering both supporting and opposing evidence. It encourages a more balanced perspective, leading to more thoughtful consideration of conflicting information.

Additional Questions to Consider:

1. "How did I come to hold this belief?"

   - This encourages reflection on the origins of the belief, potentially revealing biases or influences that may not be valid.

2. "What would I say to a friend with the opposite belief?"

   - This question can help distance oneself from emotional investment in the belief and allows for a more objective evaluation.

3. "What are the possible consequences of holding onto this belief?"

   - This can encourage consideration of the practical implications of their beliefs and whether they align with their values.

4. "Am I open to changing my mind if new evidence arises?"

   - This fosters an openness to new information and encourages a growth mindset.

5. "What are the most compelling arguments against my belief?"

   - Actively seeking out counterarguments can help reduce defensiveness and lead to a more nuanced understanding.

6. “If I allow myself to be reasonably influenced by this new information, how would my belief (POV) change?