Abstract
<p>Introduction: Recent advances in Cognitive Dissonance theory have clarified its broad applications and its mental health consequences when dissonance remains unresolved. However, this theory has rarely been tested quantitatively in the context of religious transitions, a major non-normative life event associated with negative mental health outcomes.Methods: In a cross-sectional sample of 1,206 religious dones, or individuals who leave religion and do not plan to return, we extend cognitive dissonance theory by testing the conditions under which unresolved dissonance relates to perceived mental health. Participants retrospectively reported belief–behavior inconsistency and related discomfort before and after leaving, as well as current depression, anxiety, and perceived post-traumatic growth (PTG).Results: Participants reported perceiving significant reductions in dissonance following deidentification. Greater reductions in inconsistency were associated with lower depression and anxiety, while perceived growth operated through reduced discomfort about that inconsistency. Religious demand moderated the association between discomfort and perceived growth.Conclusion: These findings suggest that cognitive dissonance may both motivate major non-normative life events and shape their psychological consequences. For some individuals, leaving religion may improve mental health not simply because they leave, but because leaving allows them to reduce dissonance and live in greater alignment with their beliefs.</p>