The three dimensions of attribution

Overview

Locus of causality, stability and controllability, classifying Weiner's four attributions, expectations and emotions, low ability as a cause of failure, high achievers and those who avoid failure, the hockey captain and the long jumper.

What you need to know

Answer each one before you reveal it.

Questions from this subtopic

Each one with the model answer underneath.

1. 1

   What are the three dimensions of attribution?

   Model answer

   The three dimensions are locus of causality, stability and controllability. Each attribution can be classified on all three.

2. 2

   What is locus of causality?

   Model answer

   Locus of causality describes whether the cause of an outcome lies inside or outside the performer. Causes are classed as internal or external.

3. 3

   Classify Weiner's four attributions as internal or external.

   Model answer

   Ability and effort are internal. Luck and task difficulty are external.

4. 4

   What is the stability dimension of attribution?

   Model answer

   Stability describes whether a cause is permanent or likely to change over time. Causes are classed as stable or unstable.

5. 5

   Classify Weiner's four attributions as stable or unstable.

   Model answer

   Ability and task difficulty are stable. Effort and luck are unstable.

6. 6

   What is the controllability dimension of attribution?

   Model answer

   Controllability describes whether the performer can influence the cause of an outcome. Causes are classed as controllable or uncontrollable.

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