Someone cuts you off in traffic.
"That jerk!" you think (or, if you're like me, you'll use more colorful descriptors). It doesn't matter to you that the driver might be stressed, late, or even in labor.
They did a BAD THING because they're a BAD PERSON. 😈
On the other hand, we only do "bad" things because of external influences. 😇
And ↑that↑ is fundamental attribution error in action.
Fundamental attribution error is a cognitive bias that takes two possible explanations for behavior into consideration:
1. Our behaviors are influenced by internal characteristics like personality and disposition (it's just the way someone is).
2. Our behaviors are influenced by external situational factors (such as stress, labor, etc).
Here's the twist (and therefore, the "error"):
Research shows that when interpreting other people's behavior, particularly behavior that bugs us like being cut off by someone in traffic, we are more inclined to attribute others' behavior to internal factors. Our minds don't immediately leap to looking for reasonable explanations. Instead, we go to the accusation: They're simply a rude, reckless idiot.
BUT!
When interpreting our own behavior, e.g., we are the ones to cut someone off in traffic, we are quick to attach our behaviors to external reasons. It's someone or something else's fault:
"I am late and need to move, and besides, they didn't even need to tap their brakes-- I'm such a good driver."
or
"This person isn't driving fast enough, and I must pass them."
or
"If this person weren't a Sunday driver, I wouldn't have to cut them off."
Blame. Blame. Blame.
So what to do?
1. Be aware of this inclination. Interesting to note is that Americans (who live in a traditionally competitive culture) are more likely to have this bias than those in other less me-oriented and more collaborative cultures, such as those in India for example.
2. Put distance between stimulus and response. Breathe. Don't react on your first impulse.
3. Offer three possible alternative explanations other than blaming another's personality/internal attributions -- no matter how outrageous those explanations might be. For example, the next time someone cuts you off and your heart rate accelerates along with your speed, pause and say,
"There must be free doughnuts up at the next exit. "
You never know. 🍩 🍩 🍩
Cognitive biases such as fundamental attribution error limit our empathy and understanding of others. These prejudices color the way we respond to others.
Becoming aware of such biases helps you become
a better leader,
a better friend,
a better partner and
a better person.