What effect does contradictory information have on perception?

Contradictory information can significantly affect perception by creating confusion and barriers in understanding. When individuals encounter conflicting data or viewpoints, it challenges their previous beliefs or knowledge, leading to difficulty in processing and reconciling the new information. This confusion can result in cognitive dissonance, where a person struggles to find coherence between what they already know and the new, contradictory information presented. As a result, they may find it harder to make informed decisions or develop a clear understanding of the subject matter. This sense of ambiguity can inhibit effective learning and hinder the ability to engage critically with the information, as learners may be unsure of which perspective to trust or follow. Thus, the primary effect of encountering contradictory information is the creation of confusion and barriers, rather than the encouragement of critical thinking or improvement in retention or understanding.