COVID-19, cognitive dissonance and conspiracy theories
Abstract
The aim of this paper is to point to the cognitive dissonance caused in people by different information about the new COVID-19 disease. The information originates from different professional and laymen sources and is often inconsistent. The fact that science itself has not entirely clarified the origin of the virus causing COVID-19, the symptoms, treatment protocols and consequences of disease, complicates the situation. Cognitive dissonance causes frustration, fear and stress, which, if prolonged, lead to health disorders. In search of a way out of cognitive ambiguity, many accept conspiracy theories as a solution to their own tensions.
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