Studies on how managers perceive poor performance by a subordinate find that they are MOST likely to ________.
A) attribute the cause to external factors such as insufficient resources
B) attribute the cause to internal factors such as motivation or ability
C) attribute the cause to bad luck or random, unpredictable events
D) make an accurate assessment of the cause of poor performance

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Managers are more likely to attribute poor performance by a subordinate to internal factors such as the individual's lack of motivation or ability, rather than external circumstances or luck. This is consistent with the fundamental attribution error, where people tend to overemphasize personal characteristics and underemphasize situational factors when explaining others' behavior.

Studies on How Managers Perceive Poor Performance by a Subordinate