In Attribution Theory, which concept refers to a student's belief regarding whether the causes of success or failure are stable or changeable?

In Attribution Theory, the concept of stability pertains to a student's belief about whether the factors influencing their success or failure are consistent over time or subject to change. For example, if a student believes that their intelligence is a stable trait, they may attribute their success to their inherent ability. Conversely, if they see effort as a changeable factor, they might attribute their failure to lack of effort rather than a fixed inability.

Understanding stability is crucial because it impacts how students respond to their academic experiences. If they view causes as stable, they may feel helpless in the face of failure, believing nothing can change their situation. On the other hand, if they see causes as changeable, they may be more motivated to improve their performance through strategies like increased effort or studying more effectively. Thus, the emphasis on stability helps to frame how students interpret their experiences and subsequently approach future learning challenges.