Final answer:
Dr. Townsend may be making the fundamental attribution error in assuming that the poor performance of freshmen at Frost University is solely due to their young and playful nature.
Step-by-step explanation:
Dr. Townsend may be making the fundamental attribution error in assuming that the poor performance of freshmen at Frost University is solely due to their young and playful nature. The fundamental attribution error refers to the tendency to attribute behavior solely to internal traits and overlook situational influences.
Instead of considering other factors that may contribute to the freshmen's poor performance, such as the transition to college, unfamiliarity with the academic environment, or lack of study skills, Dr. Townsend is solely attributing it to their age and playfulness. It is important to take into account the various factors that can affect academic performance and not solely rely on assumptions based on limited observations.