Attribution theory of behavior

With the reformulation of the attribution theory of behavior, Weiner, B, (2012), it

crystallizes the motivational push of social behavior. The theory presents the
intrapersonal and interpersonal approach on social behavior. Its intrapersonal approach
on the individuals behavior allowed introspection of ones behavior. A person can make
inferences on his/her success through reflecting. As rational beings, we maintain a
certain level of self-esteem. In situation when it is threatened we usually find an
explanation to understand ones behavior. On the interpersonal level of analysis,
Attribution of success or failure would determine the helping behavior of an individual.
Altruism and sympathy would vary depending on the how we attribute others behavior.
Attribution theory of behavior is also closely linked to the Social identity theory. When
people are heavily praised they often attribute it to dispositional factor. On the other
hand, among collectivist culture, individuals are typically blamed for group error.
Success of a personis attributed to the group, for individuals who are internally
motivated this can be a source of frustration.
The attribution theory of behavior allows individualsto realize that some mistakes are
controllable therefore one can identify corrective and preventive measures on present
and future behavior. Success, failure, achievement and controllability motivate people
to realize that they are responsible for the change in their behavior.
On the localized perspective, it is very logical to highlight the culture of fatalism in
understanding howindividuals attribute success and failure on individuals behavior.
Success in Filipino context are oftentimes associated with luck, tadhana (destiny),
guhit ng palad (fate). These superstitious belief marks a significant contribution on the
motivation angle among Filipinos.
The concept of learned helplessness and social loafing evident among battered women
and religious believer respectively might also alter ones perception of motivation.
In terms of regulatory ideals of TAPAS, the attribution theory of motivation is a
progressive model of behavior. This recognized an individuals engagement of man to

plan behavior and behave accordingly. It presents an autonomic view of man; however,
social norms are not fleshed out during discussion. Our behavior is affected by the
interacting and dynamic forces and elements of ones culture. These are however not
factored in in the discussion *

Motivational / affective level of analysis

Coopers (2012) Cognitive dissonance model among all others has its appeal
because of its empirical studies and social implications. This theory has dominated the
social psychology literature as it emphasizes the individuals need for cognitive
consistencies. Looking at the life course of cognitive dissonance theory we can see how
it developed and struggled for perfection. With its parochial setting, experimental
works/paradigm and empirical evidences are very innovative and creative. Its desire to
tointegrate mediating variables lead to an overarching attempt to explain social
behavior. Its elegance perished as it became overloaded and overextended.
In terms of limitation, dissonance is something very intrapersonal since one
cannot make judgment for other peoples experience. Dissonance is less visible since it
is an intrinsic experience. On the interpersonal level vicarious dissonance is an
extension of social identity theory since people have a desire for external social
harmony. Dissonance has motivational angle as it arouses a drive when inconsistent
thought are present, we change what is changeable and we change our attitude.
Applying the cognitive dissonance level in the Filipino culture is quite challenging.
Filipino culture usually elicit high tolerance for dissonance. The concept of bahala na
would support this claim. This is a strong argument that would result to a significant
effect on behavior since high tolerance for ambiguity does not arouse a drive. The
ganyan talaga ang buhay is an expression which implies belief in fate and also a
manifestation of increased acceptance of inconsistencies.
Social Dominance orientation and leaned helplessness attitude are also mediating
variables in the Cognitive dissonance theory. The important feature of this theory is its

pro active view of man and its major tenet that dissonance as a string driving force of
behavior.
Social comparison
The article of social comparison theory discusses the ability of individuals to
evaluate themselves relative to objective or physical standards, which are not always
available and in some cases do not lead to an uncertainty induced a drive-like state that
could be satisfied by social comparison. This idea is consistent with the drive theory that
became famous during the 1950
Looking at the idea of upward comparison and downward comparison, one would
appreciate how individuals maintain a certain self concept by deciding into which
reference group would he/ she evaluate his/her abilities and opinion. Our desire to know
where we stand determines our motives and future plans. This very apparent with the
Hakmiller (1966) research, which provided evidence for the motive to enhance or
protect self-esteem.
Examining people from all walks of life provides empirical evidences to support
such claim. It is very enlightening to look at varying points of view of people on these
perspective to understanding their lifestyle and attitudes in life. Such conception also
determine our lifelong decisions and impulsive acts.
In a society where one strives for individuality and uniqueness, it is unavoidable to be
influenced by people in a group. Such force should be maximized by an individual to
maximize his/her potential.
An important element that might mediate on the social comparison phenomena
of individuals would be the strong impact of social networking sites such as Facebook,
Instagram, Twitter and the likes. Most of the time, people project a photo-shopped and
enhanced self-identity. These could trigger frustration and anxiety among ones circle of
friends.

In terms of its utility, the social comparison theory is very useful when applied to
education, health and even industrial setting. Given that individuals are influenced by
interactions and affiliation with people on the same situation, one could understand
ones motive for attitude and behavior. This is specifically applicable to medical
professionals as they plan for models and instructions that would be appropriate for
psychotherapeutic interventions.
Equity theory in close relationships by Hatfield is an eye opener article for
marriage counselors. With the increasing number of marital conflicts and cases of
infidelity, one may find an sound argument of such conflict through the equity theory of
close relationship. Throughout history, people have been concerned with social justice.
In a society where social stratification exists, individuals would want to maintain such
hierarchy in different aspects of their lives. According to the equity theory, people
possess two competing inclinations: an affection for a person's own advantage and an
affection for justice. By instinct, individuals have life instinct to protect ones self and
warrant future success. Provided that each individual is given just and equal
opportunities one warrants self realization and actualization. This is particularly
applicable in establishing close and intimate relationship. Equity theory, posits that in
personal relationships, one reflect on how rewarding are one's societal, family, and work
relationships and how fair and equitable are those relationships. This is because people
feel most comfortable when they are getting exactly what they deserve from their
relationships.
From this theoretical perspective, one would be able to understand how such
concept explains mate selection and successful and failed marriages. It is also
important to consider how this theory explains the stage at which their relationship has
arrived, the impact that degree of reward and perceived and the fairness have on men
and women's marital happiness and stability. It appears that although the concern with
fairness may wax and wane during the course of a marriage, such concerns always
remain there, just beneath the surface, guiding people's perceptions, happiness and
marital choices.
This thinking can also be perceived on a drive induced state because in selecting mates
we often match our abilities to prospective partners. If there are discrepancies, these

result to an induced drive anxieties finds a way for equilibrium. Although the article
specifically discusses equity on personal level and close relationship, it is also
interesting to note that certain principles are also applicable in informal setting and
communication and even on formal organizational setting. It is quite enlightening to
know that such concept has its advantages specifically in maintaining equity in
relationship. Moreover, propositions governing equity theory would also be helpful in
understanding the results of inequality in close intimate relationship. A lot of times,
unsuccessful marriages are prevalent across different phases of relationship. Some
researchers will reveal numerous factors such as personality differences and
incompatibility.

Such incompatibility sometimes results to an individuals desire to

maintain fair and just relationship.