Actor-Observer Asymmetry

Definition

Actor-observer asymmetry refers to the tendency for individuals to attribute their own behavior to external factors while attributing others' behavior to internal factors. In other words, people tend to explain their own actions based on the situation they are in, but attribute others' actions to their personal characteristics.

Related terms

Fundamental Attribution Error: The tendency to overestimate the influence of personal characteristics and underestimate situational factors when explaining others' behaviors.

Self-Serving Bias: The tendency for individuals to attribute their successes to internal factors and failures to external factors in order to protect their self-esteem.

Correspondence Bias: The tendency for individuals to infer that someone's behavior reflects their personality rather than considering situational influences.