1. Fundamental attribution error: This refers to the tendency to overemphasize dispositional (internal) factors and underestimate situational (external) factors when explaining someone else's behavior. For example, if someone fails a test, you may think they are inherently unintelligent, disregarding the possibility that they may have been sick or had a personal problem that affected their performance.
2. Actor observer effect: This is the tendency to attribute our own behavior to external factors and others' behavior to internal factors. For instance, if we fail a test, we may blame the difficult questions or distractions in the environment. However, if someone else fails the same test, we may attribute it to their lack of intelligence or effort.
3. Defensive attribution bias: This refers to the tendency to attribute negative outcomes to external factors in order to protect our self-esteem. For example, if someone gets robbed, we may blame them for not being cautious enough, rather than acknowledging that it could happen to anyone.
4. Self-serving bias: This is the tendency to attribute our successes to internal factors and our failures to external factors. For instance, if we excel in an exam, we may attribute it to our intelligence and hard work. However, if we perform poorly, we may blame the teacher's unfair grading or lack of preparation time.
5. Just world hypothesis: This is the belief that people generally get what they deserve and the world is fair. It leads to the attribution of positive outcomes to deserving individuals and negative outcomes to the unworthy. For example, if a person is unemployed, they may be seen as lazy or lacking skills, neglecting the possibility of economic conditions or a lack of job opportunities.
Attribution errors simply explained with examples
1. Fundamental attribution error
2. Actor observer effect
3. Defensive attribution bias
4. Self serving bias
5. Just world hypothesis
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