Attribution theory

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Attribution theory (hereinafter, the Theory) is a theory used to explain how we judge people differently depending on what meaning we attribute to a given behavior. This theory also attempts to determine whether an individual's behavior is internally or externally caused.

FactorsObservationInterpretationAttribution
DistinctivenessThe individual behaves this way in other situationsLow distinctivenessInternal
The individual behaves differently in other situationsHigh distinctivenessExternal
ConsensusOther people behave the same way in similar situationsHigh consensusExternal
Other people behave differently in similar situationsLow consensusInternal
ConsistencyThe individual behaves this way consistentlyHigh consistencyInternal
The individual behaves this way rarelyLow consistencyExternal

Definitions

According to Organizational Behavior by Robbins and Judge (17th edition),

Attribution theory. An attempt to determine whether an individual's behavior is internally or externally caused.

According to Management by Robbins and Coulter (14th edition),

Attribution theory. A theory used to explain how we judge people differently depending on what meaning we attribute to a given behavior.

Key concepts

  • Fundamental attribution error. The tendency to underestimate the influence of external factors and overestimate the influence of internal factors when making judgments about the behavior of others.
  • Self-serving bias. The tendency for individuals to attribute their own successes to internal factors while putting the blame for failures on external factors.

Related lectures

See also