Attribution Theory vs Locus of Control
Both attribution theory and locus of control are important theories in social psychology, and are interrelated. They help to explain how people interpret events, with attribution theory focusing on how people connect their thinking and behavior, while locus of control theory looks at the causes of attribution. These two theories offer insights into different dimensions of how individuals interpret events.
What is Attribution Theory?
Attribution theory deals with how individuals try to interpret events that happen in daily life and how they connect their thinking and behavior. There are two types of attribution:
• Internal attribution
• External attribution
In internal attribution, people interpret the behavior of a person based on certain personality traits, while external attribution focuses on the world around them. According to Weiner, there are four major factors that affect attributions when it comes to achievements: ability, effort, task difficulty, and luck. Weiner also believed that the causes of attribution are three-dimensional, consisting of locus of control, stability, and controllability.
What is Locus of Control?
Locus of control theory was introduced by Julian Rotter and suggests that some people believe they have control over their actions, while others think their actions are controlled by external factors such as fate or destiny. There are two types of locus of control:
• Internal locus of control
• External locus of control
Individuals with an internal locus of control take responsibility for their actions and believe they are accountable for them, while those with an external locus of control believe their actions are controlled by greater powers.
Key Takeaways
- Attribution theory focuses on how individuals interpret events and connect their thinking and behavior.
- Locus of control theory looks at whether individuals believe their actions are controlled by internal or external factors.
- Both theories are interrelated and provide insights into different dimensions of how individuals interpret events.
