Situational attribution

Situational attribution is when people explain someone’s behavior by considering external factors or circumstances rather than their personal characteristics. For example, if someone is late to a meeting, you might think they were held up by traffic or an emergency, rather than assuming they are careless. This type of attribution focuses on the environment or situation that influenced the behavior. It helps us understand that sometimes, actions are shaped by outside factors beyond an individual’s control, leading to a more compassionate and realistic interpretation of why people behave the way they do.