Title:
COGNITIVE DISSONANCE AND RISK PERCEPTION IN MEXICAN FEMALE SMOKERS: A CROSS-SECTIONAL ANALYSIS

Authors:
Natalia Carrillo Galvez and Karen Jiménez Arriaga

Abstract:
Cognitive dissonance may play a significant role in how individuals rationalize harmful behaviors such as smoking, particularly among women who face unique sociocultural and emotional barriers to cessation. This study aimed to examine the relationship between cognitive dissonance and risk perception in Mexican adult female smokers, while identifying psychological profiles and key predictors that influence awareness of smoking-related risks. A cross-sectional, quantitative approach was applied to a purposive sample of 203 women between the ages of 14 and 56 who self-identified as active smokers. Data were collected using a validated Risk Perception Scale and a Cognitive Dissonance in Smoking Scale developed for this research. Descriptive statistics, Pearson’s correlation, ANOVA, multiple linear regression, and k-means cluster analysis were conducted using SPSS version 25. Findings indicated that higher levels of cognitive dissonance were significantly associated with lower levels of risk perception (r = –.43, p < .001). Additionally, educational attainment and age at smoking initiation emerged as relevant predictors of risk perception. The cluster analysis revealed three distinct cognitive-perceptual profiles: minimizers, ambivalent smokers, and coherent-aware smokers. These results suggest that cognitive dissonance operates as a regulatory mechanism that diminishes perceived risk, thereby reinforcing addictive patterns. The findings underscore the importance of incorporating gender-sensitive and emotionally informed strategies in public health interventions aimed at reducing tobacco use among women.

Keywords:
Cognitive dissonance, risk perception, smoking, women, behavioral health

DOI:
https://doi.org/10.37500/IJESSR.2025.8411

Date of Publication: 23-07-2025