The fundamental attribution error occurs when individuals do which of the following?

• A. Attribute others' behavior primarily to their personality or disposition rather than to situational factors
• B. Attribute their own behavior to external circumstances rather than internal traits
• C. Recognize that both dispositional and situational factors equally influence behavior
• D. Assume that situational factors are always more important than personal traits in explaining behavior

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of the fundamental attribution error, which is a common cognitive bias in social psychology.
2. Recognize that this error involves how people explain the causes of others' behavior, specifically the tendency to overemphasize internal personality traits (dispositions) and underestimate external situational factors.
3. Compare the options given to see which one aligns with this definition: the fundamental attribution error is about attributing others' behavior to personality rather than the situation.
4. Eliminate options that describe attribution of one's own behavior or that suggest equal or greater importance of situational factors, as these do not reflect the fundamental attribution error.
5. Conclude that the correct understanding is that individuals commit the fundamental attribution error when they attribute others' behavior primarily to their personality or disposition rather than to situational factors.