Examination for Professional Practice of Psychology (EPPP) Practice Test

What psychological concept is exhibited when viewers send hate mail to an actor after they play a child abuser?

1. Psychological reactance

2. The fundamental attribution error

3. The availability bias

4. Defensive attribution

The correct answer is: The fundamental attribution error

The scenario described highlights the psychological concept of the fundamental attribution error, where individuals attribute others' behaviors to their character rather than considering situational factors. In this case, viewers are directing their anger towards the actor for portraying a role of a child abuser, mistakenly believing that the actor's performance reflects their true nature. This error occurs when observers overlook the context—namely, that the actor is simply playing a fictional role and is not an actual child abuser. The fundamental attribution error illustrates how people often evaluate others’ actions without recognizing situational influences that might lead to those behaviors. In this situation, the viewers' extreme reaction suggests they are not considering the actor's professional role and the distinction between character and actor, which is central to understanding this cognitive bias.