The mental process people use to explain their behavior and the behavior of others is called

A) an attribution.
B) an attitude.
C) cognitive dissonance.
D) the fundamental attribution error.

Attribution

The process by which individuals explain the causes of behavior and events, often as either internal dispositions or external situations.

Cognitive Dissonance

The psychological discomfort experienced when holding two or more conflicting beliefs, ideas, or values.

Fundamental Attribution Error

A cognitive bias that causes people to overemphasize personal characteristics and ignore situational factors in judging others' behavior.