Week 3: Self, Identity, Perception & Attribution
Overcoming Attribution Errors
Discussion Prompt
The fundamental attribution error - our tendency to attribute others' behavior to their character while attributing our own behavior to circumstances - is surprisingly common in daily life. Think of a specific example where you (or someone you observed) made this error. What was the situation? What internal attribution was made about someone else's behavior? What situational factors might have been overlooked? What strategies could help us recognize and overcome this bias in our everyday communication?
Response Guidelines
- Share a specific, concrete example (not a hypothetical)
- Analyze both the attribution made and possible situational factors
- Propose practical strategies for recognizing this error
- Respond to classmates with additional insights or alternative interpretations
- Maintain a non-judgmental tone when discussing human cognitive biases
Minimum 200 words