What concept refers to the phenomenon where individuals overemphasize dispositional factors over situational factors when judging others' behavior?

The concept that refers to the tendency for individuals to prioritize dispositional factors, such as personality traits or character, over situational factors, such as environmental influences or circumstances, when interpreting the behavior of others is known as the fundamental attribution error. This cognitive bias leads people to make quick judgments that neglect the broader context affecting someone's actions.

For instance, if someone fails to meet a deadline, observers might attribute this failure solely to laziness or poor time management skills, overlooking potential situational influences like unforeseen challenges or a heavy workload. Recognizing this bias is crucial in psychology, as it emphasizes the importance of understanding the complex interplay between individual characteristics and situational contexts when evaluating behavior.