Stability of causal attributions as a mediator in changing expectations for success.

Abstract

Drawing upon previous research, a mathematical model for understanding the , relationship between causal attributions for success and failure and future expectations was developed. Four hypotheses were generated from the model: (a) The stability of attributions is a function of the difference between the person's initial expectations and the actual outcome, (b) The more an outcome is attributed to stable causes, the greater the weight that will be given to that outcome in determining predictions for the future, (c) Change in expectations will be a quadratic function of the difference between initial expectations and the actual performance, (d) By manipulating the causal attributions it is possible to lessen or increase the amount of weight given to an outcome when making predictions for the future. Two studies are reported that tested and supported these hypotheses.

Action Perspectives on Human Development

“…Such contrasts between "initial" and "revised" expectations (Valle & Frieze, 1976) become particularly salient in critical transitions and choice points in the life cycle. Such contrasts between "initial" and "revised" expectations (Valle & Frieze, 1976) become particularly salient in critical transitions and choice points in the life cycle.…”

Attributional biases in subclinical depression: A schema‐based account

“…The schematic account of attributions is similar to other empirically supported models in proposing that self-estimates of ability (or the outcome expectations they generate) shape attributions (e.g., Ames, 1978;Blaine & Crocker, 1993;Feather, 1969Feather, , 1982Fielstein et al, 1985;Fishbein & Ajzen, 1975;Miller & Moretti, 1988;Snyder, 1991;Valle & Frieze, 1976;Weiner & Litman-Adizes, 1980). These models assume that the cognitive system constructs attributions that are consistent with these self-expectations.…”

Human Learned Helplessness

“…In analyzing the determinants of stable-unstable attribution, Valle and Frieze (1976) emphasized the impact of the consistency between outcome and prior expectancy. They argued that an outcome consistent with prior expectancy tends to be related to past accomplishments and attributed to stable factors, whereas an outcome that diverges from prior expectations tends to be perceived as fortuitous and attributed to more unstable causes.…”