Question

According to the text, a self-serving bias occurs when individuals ___

a. Take credit for personal successes and blame others for personal failures. b. Attribute their successes to external factors and take responsibility for their failures
c. Downplay their successes and attribute them to luck, while blaming external factors for their failures
d. Acknowledge their successes but attribute them to teamwork, while blaming themselves for their failures

Answer 1

According to the text, a self-serving bias occurs when individuals a. Take credit for personal successes and blame others for personal failures.

Step-by-step explanation:

Self-serving bias occurs when individuals tend to attribute their successes to internal factors, like their abilities or efforts, while assigning external factors or other people for their failures. This bias protects their self-esteem and preserves a positive self-image. Option a highlights this behavior accurately: individuals readily claim credit for their successes, reinforcing their self-worth, yet they deflect responsibility for failures by attributing them to external factors or others. This bias often operates unconsciously, shaping perceptions and interpretations of events.

This bias can lead to skewed views of one's abilities and actions, influencing decision-making, interpersonal relationships, and even organizational dynamics. People may not take full accountability for their mistakes, hindering personal growth and learning opportunities. Recognizing and addressing this bias is crucial for fostering a more accurate self-assessment and a healthier approach to success and failure.

Correct answer: a. Take credit for personal successes and blame others for personal failures.