Fundamental+Attribution+Error+(p.1)

Fundamental Attribution Error

Definition: Attribution: How we interpret others Fundamental Attribution Error: People tend to focus on an individual in an individual incident more than they focus on the situation that a person is in, and how that situation could prompt the isolated incident. When people judge others without considering one's situation we make the fundamental attribution error.

Research: 1958- Heider 1967- Jones and Harris 1972- Jones and Nisbett 1977- Ross

Jones and Harris (1967) Person was to read essay Pro/Anti Castro feelings Asked person whether writer agreed with argument Even when they were told that the writer had been told which side to write about they believed that the writer agreed with what they were saying People assume that others actions (or in this case thoughts/opinions) reflect an attribute that they have even if they know that the situation was dictating what their argument was.

Video (watch until 2:44)

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Examples in Culture/Connection to NHS: -Stereotypes -Prejudice -First Impressions

Bibliography: “Attribution and Attraction in Psychology 101.” All Psych Online. N.p., 20 Nov. 2011. Web. 19 Mar. 2012. . “Fundamental Attribution Error.” Changing Minds. N.p., 2002-2012. Web. 20 Mar. 2012. .