Final answer:
The fundamental attribution error and the actor-observer bias are explained by attribution theory, which illustrates how we attribute causes to our own and others' behaviors. These biases demonstrate the difference between using situational and dispositional factors for our own actions versus those of others, and our tendency to maintain congruence between beliefs and behaviors.
Step-by-step explanation:
The fundamental attribution error and the actor-observer bias can both be explained by c) Attribution theory. Both concepts are related to how we perceive and explain the actions of ourselves and others. The fundamental attribution error refers to the tendency to overemphasize personality traits and underestimate situational factors when explaining others' behavior. In contrast, the actor-observer bias highlights the difference in attribution depending on whether we are the actor or observer of the behavior. We often have more information about the influences on our own behavior (b. influences on our own behavior), which can lead to more situational attributions, while we may attribute others' behaviors to their dispositions due to a lack of information (d. dispositional influences on behavior).
According to the actor-observer bias, when explaining our own behaviors, such as coming home and yelling at a loved one, we often use situational factors as the reason (b. influences on our own behavior) because we have more context on what might have influenced our state. For the behavior of others, we have less information and often default to dispositional attributions.
The idea that an individual's self-perception should match their actions is termed d) congruence. This concept is linked to the notion that we strive for consistency between our beliefs and behaviors to maintain a unified sense of self.
Finally, when discussing the seeking out of information that supports our existing beliefs or stereotypes, the term for this behavior is b) confirmation bias.