Attribution Theory

Attribution Theory is a psychological and sociological framework that explores how individuals interpret and assign causes to behaviors and events. It examines whether people attribute actions to internal factors, such as personality or motivation, or external factors, such as social context or environmental pressures. In sociology, attribution theory is applied to understand how individuals perceive social interactions, form judgments about others, and explain societal phenomena. For instance, people might attribute poverty to personal failings (internal) or systemic inequality (external). This theory highlights biases like the fundamental attribution error, where people overemphasize internal causes while underestimating external influences. Understanding attribution theory helps sociologists and psychologists analyze how these perceptions shape social relationships, stereotypes, and conflict resolution.