Read the following passage:
The concept of 'cognitive dissonance' refers to the mental discomfort experienced when a person holds two or more conflicting beliefs, values, or ideas. This psychological phenomenon can lead to changes in beliefs or behaviors as individuals seek to reduce the dissonance. For example, a person who values health but smokes cigarettes may experience dissonance and attempt to resolve it by quitting smoking, rationalizing their habit, or downplaying the health risks.