What are the three components of attitudes?

The correct response identifies the three components of attitudes as affective, behavioral, and cognitive. This model is foundational in psychology for understanding how attitudes are formed, expressed, and changed.

The affective component pertains to the emotional responses tied to an attitude object. For example, a person may feel happy or angry about a specific issue, influencing their overall attitude towards it. The behavioral component reflects how attitudes influence actions or intended actions. For instance, a favorable attitude toward environmental conservation might lead someone to recycle or participate in clean-up efforts. Finally, the cognitive component involves the beliefs and thoughts associated with the attitude. This can include perceptions, stereotypes, or factual knowledge about the topic at hand.

Together, these three components create a comprehensive view of how attitudes operate, affecting decision-making and behavior in various contexts. Understanding this triadic structure is essential for exploring topics like persuasion, social influence, and interpersonal relationships in psychology.