When you see a classmate in class or at a study session, they are always very friendly towards you. However, when you run into them at an upscale party, they act as if they do not know you. Since you know they are really a friendly person, you are MOST likely to attribute your classmate's behavior to
A) a fundamental attribution error.
B) a stereotype.
C) external attributions.
D) internal attributions.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

External attributions are explanations for someone's behavior that consider situational factors, rather than personal characteristics. In this scenario, the classmate may be acting differently at the upscale party due to the different social context and expectations, which would count as an external factor. It is possible that they are not intentionally trying to ignore or snub the person, but simply adapting to the different environment.

When You See a Classmate in Class or at a Study