What is attribution theory in social psychology concerned with?

Attribution theory is primarily concerned with how individuals interpret and explain the causes of behavior and events in their social environment. This psychological framework emphasizes the processes involved in making sense of actions, both one’s own and those of others. Individuals engage in attribution by assessing whether behaviors are due to internal factors (such as personal traits, intentions, or abilities) or external factors (such as situational influences or environmental contexts).

Understanding attribution helps clarify how people construct narratives around their experiences and the motivations behind actions, enabling social interaction and communication. This exploration of causality is fundamental to social psychology as it influences perceptions, judgments, and interactions in everyday life.

In contrast, the other options focus on different aspects of psychology. The biological basis of personality development pertains to genetics and physiological processes, while the influence of culture on social behavior involves examining how societal norms shape actions. Lastly, the role of emotions in decision-making connects more to affective psychology rather than the attribution of behavior in social contexts.