attribution theory

Define attribution

Perceived outcome of events

Two sections for winning and losing

• two section - that are sub-divided into two parts :

• - locus of causality - external and internal

• - stability dimension- stable and unstable

Stable and internal reasons

Ability

Stable and external reasons

Task difficulty

Unstable and internal reasons

Effort

Unstable and external reasons

Luck/officials

Learned helplessness

• using internal and stable reasons for losing

• When self doubt begins - inability = confidence is lowered

• When a performer begins to doubt if they can actually complete the task successfully learned helplessness happens - lack confidence and think failure is inevitable

Self serving bias

• using external and unstable reasons for losing

• Blame referee or bad luck

• Promotes self esteem

Define attribution retraining

• changing reasons given for success and failure

• Changing the perception and belief of the sportsperson by changing the reasons given for failure

Attribution retraining

• coach should change internal and stable reasons to unstable and external

• provide motivation via reinforcement

• Set achievable goals

• Allow early success so that confidence in ability is achieved