Cognitive dissonance is aroused when:

A) an individual's behavior is controlled by outside forces
B) cognitions are consistent
C) cognitions are inconsistent
D) an individual does not care

Cognitive Dissonance

A psychological discomfort experienced when holding two or more conflicting cognitions (ideas, beliefs, values, emotional reactions).

Inconsistent

Lacking regularity or uniformity in thought, action, or character.

Controlled

An experiment or situation where variables are manipulated or regulated deliberately to test causality or assess outcomes.