Religious Cognitive Dissonance

Mental stress or discomfort experienced when a person holds two or more contradictory religious beliefs or values

• You believe in a loving deity but also fear hell.

• You’re told to forgive unconditionally, but feel deep anger.

• You support equality but are taught strict gender roles.

Potential clinical implications (especially in high control settings)

• Chronic mental strain may occur when reconciling irreconcilable teachings.

• Emotional expression can be suppressed to avoid confronting contradictions.

• Spiritual and psychological confusion may lead to anxiety, guilt, or shutdown.