Which of the following best describes attribution theory in psychology?

• A. A theory that focuses on the stages of cognitive development in children
• B. A theory that describes how reinforcement and punishment shape behavior
• C. A theory that examines the influence of genetic factors on personality
• D. A theory that explains how individuals interpret and assign causes to their own and others' behavior

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand that attribution theory in psychology is concerned with how people explain the causes of behavior and events, both their own and those of others.
2. Step 2: Recognize that attribution theory is not about cognitive development stages, which are studied in developmental psychology (e.g., Piaget's theory).
3. Step 3: Note that attribution theory differs from behaviorist theories that focus on reinforcement and punishment shaping behavior.
4. Step 4: Understand that attribution theory is also distinct from theories that emphasize genetic influences on personality traits.
5. Step 5: Conclude that attribution theory best fits the description of explaining how individuals interpret and assign causes to behavior, making this the correct choice.