Influence of Individual Psychological Traits on Attribution toward Computing Technology

While traditional research has focused on the computer as a tool, more recent research has begun to explore the myriad of social responses that people make toward computing technology. This paper describes an ongoing research project that focuses on social attributions toward computing technology. Marakas, Johnson, & Palmer (2000) have suggested that individual psychological responses play an important role in predicting social attributions toward computing technology. Using a controlled laboratory study, this research investigates how four key psychological traits (locus of control, general computer self-efficacy, neuroticism, and self-esteem) influence social attributions toward computing technology.