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Do attribution processes explain success and failure behaviour in social context? Answer this in the light of Weiner's model of attribution.

This question was previously asked in
UPSC CSE 2025 (Prelims) CSAT Official Paper (25-May-2025)

Weiner’s attribution model provides a useful framework for understanding success and failure in social contexts. According to the model, individuals explain outcomes based on three dimensions: locus (internal or external), stability (permanent or temporary), and controllability. Success is often attributed to internal, stable factors like ability, which boosts confidence and motivates persistence. Failure, when attributed to unstable factors such as lack of effort, may encourage renewed attempts. However, attributing failure to internal, stable causes like low ability can reduce self-esteem and lead to helplessness. In social contexts, these attributions shape interpersonal relations. For instance, students praised for effort perceive success as controllable, whereas those blamed for lack of talent may disengage. Similarly, in workplaces, attributions of failure influence judgments of competence and fairness. Thus, attribution processes not only explain individual behaviour but also determine social responses to success and failure.

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