NYSTCE English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Practice Test

What does attribution theory highlight about individual perceptions of others compared to themselves?

1. Everyone is viewed the same

2. Individual achievements are valued

3. People usually stereotype others

4. Self-improvement is prioritized

The correct answer is: People usually stereotype others

Attribution theory delves into how individuals interpret and explain events and behaviors, especially in the context of their observations of others compared to themselves. The correct answer emphasizes that people often engage in stereotyping when assessing the behavior and traits of others. This tendency stems from cognitive shortcuts that people use to categorize others quickly, which can lead to oversimplified views of complex individuals. In contrast to their own self-assessment, individuals tend to attribute their successes to personal efforts and failures to external factors, showcasing a bias known as the self-serving bias. When evaluating others, however, they may overlook similar individual circumstances, instead applying generalizations or stereotypes based on observed traits or actions. By recognizing this tendency, educators and individuals can become more aware of how perceptions can be skewed, which can influence social interactions and educational dynamics. Other options may imply different interpretations of self and peer evaluation but do not directly align with the key insights of attribution theory regarding the tendency to stereotype when evaluating others.