Consistency of attributional responses by individuals and groups differing in gender, perceived ability and expectations for success

This study examined the consistency of Weiner's three‐dimensional attributional model using subjects who differed in situational variables (outcome, group vs. individual), psychological characteristics (perceived ability, expectations for success) and gender. A total of 138 subjects participating in competitive sport were asked to rate their own perceived ability and expectations for success prior to competition. Following competition, the subjects listed a maximum of three reasons for the outcome. A separate two‐way factorial analysis on each dimension and category revealed that in each grouping variable (gender, situational or psychological) perceived locus, stability and control were inconsistent. Results generally confirmed previous research which used the first attribution. However, the second and third attributions consistently changed, and in some cases were reversed. Further attributional research using more than the first attribution is recommended. 1986 The British Psychological Society