Festinger proposed : 

(A) Cognitive dissonance theory 

(B) Reader-response theory 

(C) Symbolic convergence theory

(D) Structural theory

Correct Answer: (A)

Explanation:

Leon Festinger proposed the Cognitive Dissonance Theory in 1957. The theory explains how people experience discomfort when they hold two contradictory beliefs or when their behavior conflicts with their beliefs. This psychological tension, called cognitive dissonance, motivates individuals to reduce inconsistency and restore balance.

For example, if a person believes smoking is harmful but continues to smoke, they experience cognitive dissonance. To relieve the discomfort, they might change their beliefs about the harmful effects of smoking or quit smoking altogether. This theory suggests that people strive for internal consistency. When they encounter contradictions, they act to align their beliefs and actions.

Cognitive dissonance can occur in many aspects of life, from decision-making to attitude change. It plays a key role in how people justify their actions or modify their beliefs to reduce discomfort.

The other options—Reader-response theory, Symbolic convergence theory, and Structural theory—are different communication and literary theories and are unrelated to Festinger’s research. Therefore, the correct answer is Cognitive dissonance theory.