Attribution Theory and Social Perception
Attribution and social perception are core aspects of social cognition. Attribution involves explaining behavior (e.g., internal traits vs. external situations), while social perception uses cues like body language and tone to form judgments. Both guide interactions but are prone to biases that can distort understanding.
Theories of Attribution
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Heider’s Attribution Theory (1958):
People attribute behavior to internal (personality, effort) or external (situational) causes.-
Example:
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Kelley’s Covariation Model (1967):
Observers use three criteria to determine causality:
1. Consistency is the
question of whether an individual behaves consistently throughout
time in similar situations.
2. Distinictiveness examines whether a behavior occurs in a number
of contexts or is specific to one.
3. Conensus considers whether or not people behave similarly in the
same situation.
Common Attribution Biases:
| Bias | Description | Example |
| Fundamental Attribution Error | Overemphasizing personal trairs over situational factors. | Assuming a rude cashier is unkind, ignoring their stressful 12-hour shift. |
| Self-Serving Bias | Crediting success to skill but blaming failure on external factors. | "I aced the test because I'm smart" vs. "I failed the because the exam was unfair". |
| Actor-Observer Bias | Explaining other's behavior with traits but our own with situations. | "They cut me off becuase they're resckless!" vs. "I cut them off because I'm late." |
Social Perception & First Impressions:
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First impressions form rapidly (within seconds) using cues like appearance, tone, and body language.
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Halo Effect: One positive trait (e.g., attractiveness) leads to assumptions of other virtues (e.g., intelligence).
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Horn Effect: One negative trait (e.g., shyness) triggers assumptions of other flaws (e.g., incompetence).
Improving Attribution & Perception
To reduce biases and enhance accuracy:
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Practice Empathy: Consider situational factors before judging others.
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Perspective-Taking:
Actively imagine
others’ thoughts/experiences.
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Awareness of Biases: Recognize tendencies like the fundamental attribution error.
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Seek Context: Gather information before forming conclusions.