Which distinction contrasts internal, dispositional explanations with external, situational explanations?

• A. Stable vs Unstable (Stable)
• B. Internal vs External
• C. Michelangelo phenomenon
• D. Stereotyping

Answer: (B)

Key idea: how we explain why someone did something—is it due to internal, dispositional factors or external, situational factors? Internal explanations attribute behavior to stable aspects of the person, like traits, abilities, or motives. External explanations attribute behavior to the surrounding situation, such as environmental pressures, luck, or other outside factors. This distinction shapes how we interpret actions in relationships and how we respond to them.

For example, if a partner forgets an important date, you might see it as a reflection of their thoughtfulness (internal) or as a result of a hectic schedule (external). The internal–external contrast is exactly what this question is asking about.

Other options don’t fit because they refer to different ideas: stable versus unstable concerns how persistent a cause is over time, not where the cause comes from; the Michelangelo phenomenon is about partners helping each other realize ideal selves; stereotyping involves applying broad beliefs to groups of people.