Exploring the Role of Cognitive Dissonance in Shaping Perceptions and Memories of Intimate Experiences

Cognitive dissonance, as the discomfort stemming from intrapersonal, conflicting beliefs, attitudes and/or behaviours, has been widely researched. However, cognitive dissonance’s relevance in shaping perceptions and memories of intimate experiences remains less understood. Thus, this paper aims at investigating this topic with a thorough review of the existing literature. Specifically, the aim is to investigate whether cognitive dissonance can be a source of inaccurate allegations of sexual abuse due to its potential influence on retrospective evaluations of sexual encounters. On no account does this paper seek to undermine the validity of allegations of sexual abuse, but rather shed light on a psychological phenomenon that may unintentionally shape the interpretation of the event.