#AP Psychology Study Guide: Attribution Theory and Person Perception

Exam Tip

This unit accounts for 8-10% of the AP Psychology exam. Understanding how people think about, influence, and relate to one another is crucial for success in this section.

#Attribution Theory and Person Perception

Key Concept

Attribution theory and person perception are cornerstones of social psychology, explaining how we understand our own behavior and that of others.

#What is Attribution Theory?

Attribution theory explains how we explain behavior – both our own and that of others – by attributing it to either internal dispositions (like personality traits) or external situations.

Dispositional Attribution (Internal): Blaming behavior on internal characteristics like personality, beliefs, or attitudes.
- Example: "He failed the test because he's lazy.