What does self-serving bias imply about our behavior?

Self-serving bias refers to the tendency of individuals to attribute their successes to their own efforts, abilities, or attributes while attributing their failures to external factors beyond their control. This cognitive bias serves to protect self-esteem and maintain a positive self-image. When someone succeeds—whether in academics, sports, or other personal endeavors—they may believe that their hard work and talent led to that success. Conversely, when faced with failure, they are more likely to blame situational factors, such as lack of resources, unfair competition, or bad luck, rather than examining their own role in the negative outcome.

This behavior is significant because it helps individuals maintain their self-esteem and cope with challenges. It explains why people might feel justified in their successes and more defensive about their failures. Understanding this bias is crucial in psychology as it can influence personal relationships, workplace dynamics, and overall mental health. The other options do not accurately capture the essence of self-serving bias as they either depict neutral or contrary behavioral tendencies.