Attribution Theory

Question 1

Attribution theory def

Answer 1

Perception of the reason for an outcome of an event/performance
-if done correctly can maintain motivation and task persistence

Question 2

Locus of causality

Answer 2

Internal (eg. Effort) or external (eg. Referee) (in or out of performers control)

Question 3

Stability dimension

Answer 3

Permanent or changeable reason
Unstable attribute- can change quickly eg. Luck
Stable attribute- can’t change quickly eg. Quality of team

Question 4

Factors that affect attribution

Answer 4

Refs decision 
Your Ability 
Luck
Effort
Practice

Question 5

Self serving bias and what the coach should do

Answer 5

Using external and unstable reasons for loosing
-when you win it’s because of you, if you loose it’s due to an external reason
Coach should: blame the weather (external), praise effort and reward ability

Question 6

Learned helplessness

Answer 6

Using internal stable reasons for loosing eg. I’m not good enough
Performer perceives failure as inevitable and task persistence drops
Can be global or specific

Question 7

Strategies to avoid learned helplessness

Answer 7

Develop self confidence
Avoid social comparisons
Blame external causes eg. Equipment, tactics.

Question 8

Attribution retaining

Answer 8

Focus on positives rather than negatives
Shift focus from internal to external
Helps raise self efficacy