Why Is Belief in a Just World a Self-Serving Belief

question 50

Multiple Choice

Why is belief in a just world a self-serving belief? We can

• A) convince ourselves that we are safe from misfortunes.
• B) compare ourselves favorably to unfortunate others.
• C) convince ourselves that we are superior.
• D) explain away our past mistakes.

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Definitions:

Aversive Conditioning

A method of behavior modification that involves the use of unpleasant stimuli to reduce or eliminate unwanted behavior.

Systematic Desensitization

A therapeutic technique used to reduce anxiety by gradually exposing the patient to the feared object or situation.

Aversive Conditioning

A method of behavioral training in which an unwanted behavior is associated with discomfort in order to discourage that behavior.

Transference

The process in psychotherapy where patients project feelings and attitudes from a past relationship onto the therapist.