I Want to Believe

Where we stand in heated debates isn't always where we'd like to stand. We might want to admire our political party's presidential candidate more than we do, for example, or to align ourselves more closely with a friend's convictions. In several studies by University at Buffalo psychologist Kenneth DeMarree and colleagues, participants described both their actual and desired attitudes on subjects ranging from McDonald's to gay marriage. There was often a gap between the two types of attitudes, the researchers found, and participants tended to take actions—such as choosing to read persuasive articles—that might move them closer to positions they considered ideal.

The desire for a stronger version of a currently held opinion—tentatively approving of the death penalty but seeking a more decisive view, for instance—can pull people further away from those they disagree with, DeMarree believes. At the same time, he says, "a variety of factors might lead people to desire less extreme attitudes than they currently have." If a friend, a leader, or popular sentiment turns against a policy you favor, you may seek reasons to dial back your own support.