6.11 Attribution theory

Question 1

Explain the attribution theory in a sporting context

Answer 1

Attribution theory tells us how individuals explain their behaviour: performers use attributions to offer reasons for winning/playing well or for loosing/playing badly

Question 2

Describe and explain Weiners attribution theory

Answer 2

Weiner believed reasons for winning or losing falls into two classifications which hold 2 sub sections

1. Locus of Causality
   1.1 Internal
   1.2 External
2. Locus of Stability
   2.1 Stable
   2.2 Unstable

Question 3

Explain the classifications of sporting attributes. Identify these classifications’ sub sections to support your answer

Answer 3

Locus of Causality (Internal + External): the reason for wining/losing can be in the control of the performer or out the control of the performer. Concerns the amount of control the performer has over the outcome.

Locus of Stability (Unstable + Stable: the reason for winning or losing can be changeable (unstable - result can be changed) or relatively permanent (stable). A stable attribute could be changed over time, but not in the short term.