attribution theory
noun
psychology
: a theory that attempts to explain the interpretive process by which people make judgments about the causes of their own behavior and the behavior of others
After studying how people explain others' behavior, Fritz Heider (1958) proposed an attribution theory. Heider noted that people usually attribute others' behavior either to their internal dispositions or to their external situations.—
David G. Myers, Psychology, 2001
David G. Myers, Psychology, 2001Indeed, in accordance with tenets of attribution theory, teachers may be most apt to reject students whom they perceive as being able, yet unwilling, to control undesired behavior.—Bryan G. Cook et al., Journal of Special Education, January 2007
Bryan G. Cook et al., Journal of Special Education, January 2007Dictionary Entries Near attribution theory
Cite this Entry
“Attribution theory.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/attribution%20theory. Accessed 1 Dec. 2024.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share