Attribution Theory

Attribution Theory

1. How people explain their own successes and failures.

   • Internal Attribution vs. External Attribution
   • Perceived as Controllable vs. Uncontrollable
   • Stable vs. Unstable
   • Attempt to maintain a positive self-image.
   • Locus of Control
     • Attribution of success or failure to internal or external factors.
       • Mastery Beliefs: self-control over learning outcomes.
         • Self-efficacy
       • Learned Helplessness: fear of failure, learning attributed to luck.