Jenny met Chris at a party. They had a great conversation and Jenny gave Chris her phone number. Several weeks went by and Chris never called. Jenny is very upset and says, “Chris is a real jerk!” What theory describes Jenny’s reaction?
Explanation
Answer: A - Attribution theory occurs when individuals explain the behaviors of others by assigning attributes to the behaviors. Attribution theory assumes that all behaviors can be explained by internal or external factors. In this example, Jenny assumes that internal factors, specifically being a jerk, are responsible for Chris not calling. Jenny does not know if external factors, such as losing her number, becoming ill, or being under stress may have caused Chris’ behavior.
