Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Internal characteristics refer to individual traits, beliefs, or personality factors that are believed to influence a person's behavior. These can include emotions, thoughts, values, and attitudes.
Situational factors are external circumstances or environmental conditions that impact an individual's behavior.
Attribution Bias: Attribution bias refers to the tendency of attributing people's behaviors more to their internal characteristics rather than considering external factors.
Self-serving Bias: Self-serving bias is the tendency for individuals to attribute their successes to internal characteristics but attribute failures to external factors beyond their control.