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Cognitive dissonance theory, developed by Leon Festinger, highlights the psychological discomfort (dissonance) that arises when individuals hold conflicting beliefs, attitudes, or values, or when their behaviors do not align with their beliefs. The theory suggests that this discomfort motivates individuals to seek consistency between their beliefs and actions, often resulting in attitude change.

The correct understanding revolves around the acknowledgment of inconsistent beliefs, which leads to discomfort. This discomfort is a crucial driving force that compels individuals to either rationalize their behavior, change their beliefs, or modify their actions to alleviate the dissonance. For example, if a person believes that smoking is harmful but continues to smoke, the inconsistency creates discomfort, prompting them to either stop smoking or adjust their belief about the dangers of smoking.

In contrast, the other choices do not accurately reflect the essence of cognitive dissonance theory. Comfortable belief and behavior consistency suggests a scenario where no dissonance exists, which doesn't align with the theory's premise. Complete acceptance of one's own beliefs points to a lack of cognitive conflict, while the separation of emotions from beliefs does not capture the internal struggle inherent in cognitive dissonance. Thus, the focus on inconsistent beliefs and the resulting discomfort leading to attitude change captures the