Attribution Theory (Examples and What it is)

Suggests we attribute our own actions to situations but others’ actions to their character.

Explains when we use internal attribution:

If behavior is intentional, unusual, directed at someone, or harmful/helpful, we assume it reflects personality (e.g., street harassment is seen as the harasser's trait).

Outlines three factors to determine attribution:

1. Consensus: Do others act the same way in the situation? (High = external; Low = internal).
2. Distinctiveness: Does the person act differently in other situations? (High = external; Low = internal).
3. Consistency: Does the person always act this way in this situation? (High = internal; Low = external).

Example: A friend buys expensive champagne at a dinner party. If they always do this (low distinctiveness, high consistency) and others don’t (low consensus), you’d attribute it to their personality. If it’s unusual (high distinctiveness) and others are also splurging (high consensus), you'd blame the situation (e.g., a celebration).

With strangers, we rely on assumptions (e.g., a fancy suit means wealth). While attributions aren’t always accurate, understanding these theories helps refine how we judge behavior.