Explain what the fundamental attribution error is, and give an example of how it might affect
a relationship.
What will be an ideal response?
A fundamental attribution error occurs when a person attributes another's behavior to
internal, controllable causes rather than to external, uncontrollable causes. For example, if I go to
the store to return a gift that I didn't like and the clerk tells me it's not returnable, I commit a
fundamental attribution error if I decide the clerk wouldn't accept my return because he is a jerk,
when, in fact, he is just following company policy and doesn't really have a choice. This will
affect our relationship, even though it is a transitory one, because of the way I will probably
respond to the clerk as a result of my attribution of the clerk's behavior. It could lead to a heated
discussion but is unlikely to be a satisfying communication in any case.
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In the introduction of a presentation, you can link your expertise, experiences, and personal enthusiasm to your topic or purpose by
a. putting you in your presentation. b. adapting to your audience. c. focusing audience attention and interest. d. setting the emotional tone. e. previewing your message.
What is the primary reason that presentation aids enhance an audience's memory of a speech?
a. Presentation aids can be quite colorful and, therefore, memorable. b. Audience members will better understand and remember the speech because of visual reinforcement. c. Audiences rarely listen when someone is just talking. d. Presentation aids are simple to produce and help the audience perceive you as an expert.