Understanding Causal Attributions in Social Psychology

What are causal attributions?

Causal attributions are the explanations we give for why people behave the way they do.

What are the two broad types of causal attributions?

Situational attributions and dispositional attributions.

Define situational attributions.

Situational attributions focus on external factors influencing a person's behavior.

Give an example of a situational attribution.

Believing a woman smiled warmly because the situation demanded it.

Define dispositional attributions.

Dispositional attributions focus on internal characteristics of the person, such as their personality traits.

What is the Fundamental Attribution Error?

The assumption that people are in control of their own behavior, often leading to incorrect judgments about them.

 How can the Fundamental Attribution Error lead to misjudgments?

We might think someone is mean rather than considering external factors affecting their behavior.

What is the Just World Hypothesis?

The belief that people get the outcomes they deserve based on their actions.

Why is the Just World Hypothesis problematic?

It can lead to blaming victims for their circumstances, such as those living with AIDS or survivors of assault.

What is the Homogeneity Effect?

The tendency to see members of an out-group as more similar to each other than they actually are.

 How does exposure to out-groups affect our perceptions?

Most people have limited exposure to out-group members, leading to generalized and often inaccurate beliefs about them.

Why is understanding causal attributions important in social psychology?

It helps us comprehend how our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are influenced by social interactions and perceptions.