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Write a short note on correspondent Inference Theory of Attribution.
Correspondent Inference Theory of Attribution
The Correspondent Inference Theory of Attribution, proposed by Edward E. Jones and Keith E. Davis in 1965, seeks to explain how individuals make inferences about others' intentions and dispositions based on their observed behavior in specific situations.
According to this theory, individuals are more likely to attribute the behavior of others to internal, dispositional factors when it is perceived as intentional, freely chosen, and not constrained by situational factors. In other words, when someone's behavior is seen as consistent with their personal characteristics or attitudes, observers infer that the behavior reflects the individual's true disposition.
The theory proposes three main factors that influence correspondent inferences:
Choice: When individuals freely choose to engage in a particular behavior despite alternative options, observers are more inclined to attribute the behavior to dispositional factors. This is because the choice suggests that the behavior reflects the individual's preferences, values, or personality traits.
Expectedness: If a behavior is unexpected or deviates from social norms or situational constraints, observers are more likely to attribute it to dispositional factors. Unexpected behavior implies that the individual's actions are driven by internal motivations rather than external influences.
Effects: When a behavior produces desirable or undesirable outcomes for the individual, observers tend to infer dispositional attributions. Positive or negative consequences of behavior reinforce the belief that the behavior reflects the individual's true disposition.
Overall, the Correspondent Inference Theory highlights the importance of considering the context, intentions, and consequences of behavior when making attributions about others. By understanding how individuals infer others' dispositions from their behavior, psychologists gain insights into the complexities of social perception and interpersonal judgments.