The term 'pilot error syndrome' is associated with which theory?

The term 'pilot error syndrome' is associated with which theory?

• A. Systems theory
• B. Human factors theory
• C. Probability theory
• D. Single Factor theory

Answer: (D)

In this idea, accidents are viewed as caused by a single factor rather than a web of contributing elements. The phrase “pilot error syndrome” describes blaming the pilot alone for an incident, which embodies the Single Factor theory—the belief that one root cause is responsible. In contrast, systems theory and human factors theory emphasize how multiple elements—equipment, procedures, training, environment, and organizational factors—interact to produce outcomes, while probability theory deals with the likelihood of events rather than identifying root causes. Therefore, the best answer is that this term is tied to the Single Factor theory.

In this idea, accidents are viewed as caused by a single factor rather than a web of contributing elements. The phrase “pilot error syndrome” describes blaming the pilot alone for an incident, which embodies the Single Factor theory—the belief that one root cause is responsible. In contrast, systems theory and human factors theory emphasize how multiple elements—equipment, procedures, training, environment, and organizational factors—interact to produce outcomes, while probability theory deals with the likelihood of events rather than identifying root causes. Therefore, the best answer is that this term is tied to the Single Factor theory.