Attribution (The Blame Game)

The causes of behavior are often attributed (blamed on) to negative motivations.  Attributions are also made based on previous knowledge about the person.  Sometimes attributions are made because of the nature of the person or the situation.  Such attribution can lead to what social psychologists call the fundamental attribution error.  This theory basically states that people attribute faults of their own to the situation or to external factors (ex. “It’s not my fault that I couldn’t get my homework done”), but faults of other people are attributed to the person or internal factors (ex. “He needs to control his temper better.”)

“Jeffrey Lionel Dahmer (May 21, 1960 – November 28, 1994) was an American serial killer and sex offender. Dahmer murdered 17 men and boys between 1978 and 1991, with the majority of the murders occurring between 1987 and 1991. His murders involved rape, dismemberment, necrophilia and cannibalism… His trial began on January 30, 1992. With evidence overwhelmingly against him, Dahmer pleaded not guilty by reason of insanity.” (Wikipedia)  Dahmer blamed his behavior on his alcoholic mother.  What do you think of such a defense?

This lesson examines the causes of behavior and the placing of blame.  Read Part A of Handout 78.  Then, complete Part B, using inference, or, if you need to, you may look up the terms.

Next, think of situations in your own life that create person of situation attribution.  For example, when you fail a test, who do you blame?  Do you tend to commit the fundamental attribution error in these situations?

Read the situation in Handout 79.  Then, answer the questions.

Finally, create a cartoon that illustrates the fundamental attribution error and attach it to the worksheets. Hint, it may help you to think of your own experiences here or of a famous court trial.