People who tend to attribute their setbacks to external, unstable, specific factors are exhibiting
A) an optimistic explanatory style.
B) a pessimistic attributional style.
C) poor self-image and low self-esteem.
D) the fundamental attribution error.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

People who attribute their setbacks to external (rather than internal), unstable (rather than stable), and specific (rather than global) factors tend to have an optimistic explanatory style. They tend to believe that their failures are due to temporary and situational factors that can be changed, rather than to permanent, unchangeable personal flaws. This type of thinking tends to be associated with better mental health and resilience.

People Who Tend to Attribute Their Setbacks to External, Unstable