Fundamental attribution error

Fundamental attribution error occurs when people assume other people’s behaviors are because of that person’s character rather than whatever situation they’re in. But when people consider their own behavior, they think it is mainly influenced by the situation they’re in.

Applications

• A legal aid client misses a court date with their lawyer. They miss it because the shift at their job changed last minute and they could have been fired if they didn’t work the shift, but the lawyer thinks they are disorganized and not serious about their case.

• A lawyer reacts harshly to a client missing a court date. The lawyer is concerned because the law is very rigid and missing the court date harmed their client’s case. But the client thinks the lawyer is rude and uncaring of their situation.