Bert is the metal recycling supervisor at a recycling center. Tammy, one of his recycling technicians, is frequently late for work. Which one of the following explanations for Tammy's tardiness, most closely fits attribution theory? "Tammy is usually late because she ________
A)is a single parent without much support."
B)lacks reliable transportation."
C)has to cope with our over-crowded highway system."
D)is irresponsible."

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Attribution theory suggests that people try to determine why others do what they do, attributing causes to behavior that can either be internal or external. Choice D ("is irresponsible") is an example of an internal attribution, where the behavior (tardiness) is attributed to an internal characteristic of the person (irresponsibility), fitting the concept of attribution theory closely.

Bert Is the Metal Recycling Supervisor at a Recycling Center