What Is Actor-Observer Bias?
It is a key in ofattributional biasthat plays a role in how we perceive and interact with other people.
The concept of actor-observer asymmetry was first introduced in 1971 by social psychologists Jones and Nisbett.
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But what about when someone else finds out their cholesterol levels are too high?
In such situations, people attribute it to things such as poor diet and lack of exercise.
As biases go, this one feels pretty self-serving.
However, when we are the observers, we can view the situation from a more distant perspective.
For example, imagine that your class is getting ready to take a big test.
Recap
Looking at situations from an insider or outsider perspective causes people to see situations differently.
People are more likely to consider situational forces when attributing their actions.
Yet they focus on internal characteristics orpersonality traitswhen explaining other people’s behaviors.
The actor-observer bias also leads us to avoid taking responsibility for our actions.
Instead of acknowledging our role, we may place the blame elsewhere.
This can create conflict ininterpersonal relationships.
Instead, make a run at beempatheticand consider other forces that might have shaped the events.
While you might have experienced a setback, maintaining a more optimistic and grateful attitude can benefit your well-being.
The actor-observer bias is a natural occurrence, but there are steps you might take to minimize its impact.
Being aware of this tendency is an important first step.
Avoiding blame, focusing on problem solving, and practicing gratitude can be helpful for dealing with this bias.
Being aware of this bias can help you find ways to overcome it.
Be empathetic and look for solutions instead of trying to assign blame.
Many attributional and cognitive biases occur as a result of how the mind works and its limitations.
While helpful at times, these shortcuts often lead to errors, misjudgments, and biased thinking.
Jones E, Nisbett R.The Actor and the Observer: Divergent Perceptions of the Causes of Behavior.
Bordens KS, Horowitz IA.Social Psychology.
Academic Media Solutions; 2002.
Linker M.Intellectual Empathy: Critical Thinking for Social Justice.
Baumeister, R. F., & Bushman, B.Social Psychology and Human Nature, Comprehensive Edition.
Belmont, CA: Wadsworth; 2014.
