External attribution refers to the psychological process of ascribing the cause or reason for certain events, behaviors, or outcomes to external factors or circumstances that are beyond an individual’s control or influence. It involves attributing one’s own or others’ actions or achievements to outside forces rather than personal characteristics or abilities.
When making external attributions, individuals tend to attribute events or outcomes to factors such as luck, fate, chance, opportunity, task difficulty, or the actions of others. This attributional style suggests that the cause of a particular behavior or outcome lies outside of the person, emphasizing situational or environmental influences rather than inherent qualities or abilities.
For instance, if someone receives a promotion at work, an external attribution would involve attributing their success to factors such as having a supportive boss, being in the right place at the right time, or simply luck. In this case, the person assumes that the promotion was not solely due to their own skills or efforts, but rather external circumstances played a significant role in their achievement.
External attribution can have significant implications in various areas, including psychology, sociology, and organizational behavior. It can shape how individuals perceive and interpret events, influence their motivation and self-esteem, and impact their overall well-being. Understanding external attribution can help in understanding human behavior and the complex interplay between individual characteristics and external factors.