Attributions in Virtual Groups: Distances and Behavioral Variations in Computer-Mediated Discussions

Authors:

• Natalie Bazarova (Cornell University)
• Joseph B. Walther (Michigan State University)

Abstract:

Recent research has focused on how location differences trigger attribution biases for remote members' problematic behavior. The present research extends the application of attribution theory to mediated groups by focusing on two additional factors: perceived similarity for partners' situational backgrounds and perceived variations across group partners' performances. The findings from an experiment involving collocated, distributed, and geographically mixed groups advance understanding about the impacts of communication and disparate locations on perceptions of partners' behavior.