WEEK 2 PSY 331

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Dec 6, 2023

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1 Attribution Theory and Performance Margarita Flores Attribution Theory and Performance The University of Arizona Global Campus PSY331: Psychology of Learning Professor: Jacqueline Chinappi August 28, 2023

2 Attribution Theory and Performance Was It MY Fault? Attribution theory provides a psychological framework for individuals to make sense of their environment by allocating causes or rationalizations to events, behaviors, and outcomes (Rosser-Majors, 2011). This theory, proposed by Fritz Heider in the 1950s, stresses the importance of social perception and the role of inner and outer factors in attribution. Critical premises of attribution theory include internal and external attributions, stability, and controllability. This essay's objectives are to explore the impact of attribution theory on individual behavior and self-reflection, highlight the importance of accepting responsibility for personal actions and consequences. Through understanding attribution theory, individuals can foster personal growth and development. The origins of attribution theory can be traced back to the work of Fritz Heider, an Austrian psychologist, who proposed it in the 1950s (Weiner, 2000). Heider believed that individuals are inclined to perceive the world in a cause-and-effect manner, which allows them to understand and explain events and behaviors. He also emphasized the importance of social perception and the role of internal and external factors in attribution (Weiner, 2000). The central premises of attribution theory include the ideas of internal and external attributions. Internal attributions refer to explanations that ascribe behaviors or outcomes of the individual, such as personal characteristics, abilities, or effort. On the other hand, external attributions refer to causes attributing behaviors or outcomes to external factors, such as bad luck, coincidental, or ecological circumstances.

3 Attribution Theory and Performance Stability and controllability are crucial factors affecting performance attribution (Weiner, 2000). Stability refers to the consistency or permanence of the cause attributed to a behavior or outcome. For example, suppose someone believes their poor performance in a test is due to a lack of ability. This stable attribution implies that their knowledge will remain constant over time. In contrast, if someone attributes their poor performance to lack of effort, this attribution is unstable as it suggests that they could improve with increased effort. Controllability, conversely, refers to an individual's perceived control over a given situation (Weiner, 2000). If someone believes they have control over the outcome, they are more likely to attribute their successes or failures to internal factors. For example, a student who attributes their high grades, to their intelligence, considers it something they have control over. However, if they attribute a lower grades on a challenging exam, they perceive it as something beyond their control and attribute it to external factors. When applying attribution theory to my past behavior, I realize that I have often attributed my successes to internal factors such as my abilities, skills, or hard work. I tend to believe that my achievements result from my effort and competence. On the other hand, when encountering failures or adverse outcomes, I attribute them to other external factors such as bad luck, difficult circumstances, or the actions of others. This tendency to shift blame or attribute problems to external causes has safeguarded my self-esteem and protected me from feeling inadequate. Understanding attribution theory has made me aware of my biases in my attributions (Weiner, 2000). It has helped me realize that taking responsibility for my actions and outcomes, both positive and negative, is crucial for personal growth and development. Instead of attributing

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