What theory posits that people need to understand why others behave in certain ways, explaining behavior through dispositional and situational factors?

Attribution theory is central to understanding human behavior as it focuses on how individuals interpret and explain the actions of themselves and others. This theory suggests that people often classify the reasons for behavior into two categories: dispositional factors and situational factors. Dispositional factors are internal traits, such as personality or character, while situational factors refer to external circumstances that might influence behavior, such as environmental or social contexts.

For instance, when observing someone else's actions, a person might first consider whether that behavior stems from the individual’s character or if it was a reaction to the situation they faced. This nuanced approach allows individuals to make sense of complex social interactions and aids in predicting future behavior.

Understanding attribution theory is important in psychology as it sheds light on how people perceive and react to the actions of others, impacting social relationships and personal biases. This framework is widely applicable in various psychological contexts, including interpersonal relationships, social psychology, and organizational behavior, making it a fundamental concept in the study of human interactions.