Stupid Computer or Stupid Me?

February 18 - 25, 2000

Stupid Computer or Stupid Me?

Programming a videocassette recorder or using a new computer can be frustrating. But when machines don't work, who do people blame? In a study by researchers at UAB and The Kitchens Group published in the journal Perceptual and Motor Skills, 2000, researchers tested whether a person's trust in new pieces of equipment and their self-confidence in using them influenced attribution of blame. Of the 600 people polled, 71 percent blame themselves; 24 percent blame the machines. "The study showed that older people blame themselves more often than younger subjects," says UAB communications researcher Larry Powell, Ph.D. "Older people are often less familiar with the new technology and more secure in blaming themselves. Younger people are more electronically savvy and are more confident in blaming the equipment."

Contact Gail Short, Media Relations, 205-934-8931 or [email protected].

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