Attribution Theory and Biases

This tutorial introduces attribution theory, which explains how we interpret others' behaviors based on internal or external causes. It covers key factors like distinctiveness, consensus, and consistency, and discusses biases such as the fundamental attribution error and self-serving bias. The tutorial provides examples to illustrate these concepts, helping viewers understand how we judge behaviors and the errors we might make in these judgments.

What is the primary focus of attribution theory?

• To study the biological basis of behavior

• To determine the reasons behind people's behaviors

• To explain why non-living objects behave in certain ways

• To understand the physical laws governing behavior

Which of the following is an example of internal attribution?

• Blaming traffic for being late

• Attributing a friend's lateness to oversleeping

• Citing a tire puncture as a reason for delay

• Explaining a missed deadline due to a power outage

What is an example of external attribution?

• Attributing a missed meeting to oversleeping

• Blaming a traffic jam for being late

• Explaining a mistake due to lack of effort

• Citing laziness for not completing a task

What does distinctiveness refer to in attribution theory?

• The external factors influencing behavior

• The uniqueness of a person's behavior in different situations

• The similarity of a person's behavior to others

• The frequency of a behavior over time

When is consensus considered high in attribution theory?

• When everyone responds similarly to a situation

• When a person's behavior is unique

• When a person's behavior is consistent over time

• When everyone responds differently to a situation

What does consistency in behavior indicate?

• The behavior is influenced by others

• The behavior is unique to the situation

• The behavior is likely internally caused

• The behavior is likely externally caused

What is the fundamental attribution error?

• Overestimating external factors and underestimating internal factors

• Overestimating internal factors and underestimating external factors

• Attributing success to external factors

• Attributing failure to internal factors

What is self-serving bias?

• Taking credit for others' successes

• Blaming others for personal failures

• Attributing successes to internal factors and failures to external factors

• Attributing successes to external factors and failures to internal factors

In the US News and World Report study, what percentage of people thought the loser should pay legal costs?

• 44%

• 30%

• 60%

• 85%

How does attribution theory help in understanding behavior?

• By analyzing the biological basis of actions

• By determining if behavior is internally or externally caused

• By studying the physical laws of nature

• By focusing on non-living objects