Defensive Attribution

We explain blame and responsibility in ways that help us feel safer and less vulnerable.

Unexpected harm can threaten our sense of safety and control. Blaming a victim or emphasising personal mistakes may create the reassuring belief that we can avoid the same outcome by behaving differently.

• Someone assumes an accident victim must have been careless without knowing the full circumstances.
• People blame a person for being deceived because admitting that anyone could be deceived feels uncomfortable.
• An observer overemphasises personal choices while ignoring unsafe systems or environmental conditions.

• Ask what facts are still unknown.
• Consider circumstances and system failures.
• Avoid using outcomes as proof of prior carelessness.
• Imagine the same event happening to someone you respect.
• Use compassionate, evidence-based language.