In the context of attribution theory, which explanation is considered internal?

In attribution theory, internal attributions refer to the belief that outcomes are a result of an individual's personal characteristics or actions. When success or failure is linked to inherent qualities such as ability, effort, or motivation, it is considered an internal attribution.

In this context, attributing failure to a lack of effort indicates a belief that the outcome was a direct result of the individual's personal choices or actions. This aligns with the definition of internal attribution because it places responsibility on the individual rather than external factors.

The other options reflect external attributions, where outcomes are connected to outside influences rather than personal disposition. For example, attributing success to luck or external support suggests that factors outside the individual's control played a significant role in the outcome. Similarly, attributing failure to bad timing implies that circumstances, rather than personal effort or ability, led to the negative result. In contrast, saying that failure stemmed from a lack of effort emphasizes a personal responsibility that is characteristic of internal attribution.