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What is the fundamental attribution error?

PsychologyLesson on requestFree to read

Quick answer

The fundamental attribution error is our tendency to blame other people's behavior on their character, while excusing our own behavior as caused by circumstances. If someone else is late they're 'lazy'; if we're late, 'traffic was terrible'. We blame others' actions on their personality.

Key things to understand

  1. We blame others' actions on their personality.
  2. We blame our own actions on the situation.
  3. It ignores the powerful role of circumstances.
  4. Awareness fosters empathy and fairer judgments.

People also ask

What is the fundamental attribution error?
The tendency to attribute others' behavior to their character while excusing our own as situational.
What's an example of the fundamental attribution error?
Assuming a driver who cuts you off is rude, rather than possibly rushing to an emergency.
How do you overcome it?
Pause to consider the situation others might be in, just as you would for yourself.