Theory of mind is the ability to attribute mental states—beliefs, intents, desires, pretending, knowledge, etc.—to oneself and others and to understand that others have beliefs, desires and intentions that are different from one's own.[1]

^- what does attribute mean in this context?

Question

Theory of mind is the ability to attribute mental states—beliefs, intents, desires, pretending, knowledge, etc.—to oneself and others and to understand that others have beliefs, desires and intentions that are different from one's own.[1] 

^- what does attribute mean in this context?

anonymous · Answer

I'd go with this definition: "consider as caused by something indicated"

In context, this is what I'm reading...Theory of mind is the ability to realize that mental states are the result of oneself (i.e., one's own upbringing, thoughts, etc) and that this varies from person to person.