In Mezulsi et al.’s study, what variable was found to influence self-serving attributions significantly?

The finding that culture significantly influences self-serving attributions is rooted in how different cultural contexts shape individual behavior and perception. In many cultures, particularly collectivistic ones, there is a tendency to emphasize group harmony and shared responsibility, thus affecting how individuals attribute successes and failures. For example, individuals from these cultures are more likely to take group credit for successes and may explain failures in terms of external factors, rather than attributing them to personal shortcomings. This contrasts with individuals from individualistic cultures, where self-serving attributions—such as taking personal credit for successes and blaming external factors for failures—are more prevalent.

Understanding the impact of culture on self-serving attributions not only highlights the variability in psychological processes across different cultural settings but also underscores the importance of context in interpreting behaviors. By identifying culture as a significant variable, the study reveals how deeply embedded social norms and values can shape the way individuals perceive themselves in relation to their achievements and setbacks. This insight emphasizes the need for a nuanced approach in social psychology that considers cultural backgrounds when assessing attributions and behaviors.