When Chris returned home to the apartment after grocery shopping, Pat became angry because Chris had forgotten to get any ice cream. Chris explained Pat's behavior by reflecting on what a mean and cranky person Pat was. Which of the following best characterizes this attribution?
A) It is an adaptive attribution.
B) It is an external attribution.
C) It is a maladaptive attribution.
D) It is a self-serving attribution.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Chris's attribution of Pat as a mean and cranky person is a maladaptive attribution because it is a negative interpretation of Pat's behavior that is unlikely to improve their relationship or resolve the conflict. It also places the blame solely on Pat rather than considering any potential situational factors that could have contributed to the behavior.

When Chris Returned Home to the Apartment After Grocery Shopping