Attribution Theory

Question 1

Define Attribution, give an example of an attribution

Answer 1

The reasons that a performer gives for failure. E.g. I lost today because the ref was bias

Question 2

Identify weiners 4 main attributions

Answer 2

Luck, Task Difficulty, Effort, Ability

Question 3

Explain weiners model of attribution

Answer 3

A two dimensional model called the locus of causality and stability. This model can be used to decide whether attributions are internal/external, and unstable/stable

Question 4

Define weiners locus of causality

Answer 4

Identifies those factors that are internal (from performer) or external (from the environment)

Question 5

Define weiners locus of stability

Answer 5

Identifies those factors that are stable or unstable, (over the duration of the performance)

Question 6

Define the locus of control

Answer 6

The extent to which an outcome is under the control of the performer

Question 7

More perceived control leads to

Uncontrollable factors are

Answer 7

Higher perceived motivation

Luck e.g. lucky to win,
task difficulty e.g. opponent is top of the league

Question 8

What does attribution affect (3)

Answer 8

Self confidence
Motivation
Improved performance

Question 9

Define learned helplessness

Answer 9

A feeling that failure is inevitable.
• leads to avoidance behaviour

Question 10

Define mastery orientation

Answer 10

When the performer is in control of the outcome
• leads to approach behaviour