14.2 Theories of motivation Motivation and attribution Attribution theory(Weiner, 1989)seeks to understand explanations and excuses, particularly when applied to success or failure. He suggests that most explanations for success or failure have three characteristics. The first is whether the cause is seen as internal or external. The second is whether it is seen as stable or unstable. the third is whether it is perceived as controllable or not.14.2 Theories of motivation • Motivation and attribution • Attribution theory(Weiner, 1989) seeks to understand explanations and excuses, particularly when applied to success or failure. He suggests that most explanations for success or failure have three characteristics. The first is whether the cause is seen as internal or external. The second is whether it is seen as stable or unstable, The third is whether it is perceived as controllable or not