Within attribution theory, stability refers to the degree to which the circumstances causing an outcome are considered changeable. Causes that are unlikely to change over time are classified as stable.

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A prominent model of attribution suggests that we analyze the cause of a result based on three key dimensions: the locus of control (whether the cause is internal or external), stability (whether the cause is stable or unstable), and controllability (whether the cause is controllable or not). This framework was proposed by Weiner in 1979.

Three Dimensions of Attribution (Weiner, 1979)

Spielman, R. M., Jenkins, W. J., & Lovett, M. D. (2020, April 22). Psychology (2nd ed.). OpenStax. https://openstax.org/books/psychology-2e/pages/1-introduction

OpenStax Psychology (2nd ed.) Textbook

A dimension within attribution theory, the locus of control identifies whether the cause of an outcome is perceived as internal to a person (e.g., personality, effort) or external to them (e.g., luck, environmental factors).

Locus of Control in Attribution

Stability in Attribution

A dimension of attribution theory, controllability assesses the extent to which the circumstances leading to an outcome can be influenced or managed. Factors that an individual has power over are deemed controllable.

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