6. The Learning Approach: Social Learning Theory AO3

Question 1

Name a strength of SLT

Answer 1

Can account for cultural differences in behaviour

Question 2

How can SLT account for cultural differences in behaviour

Answer 2

SLT principles can account for how children learn from others - and through media - can explain how cultural norms are transmitted - e.g. How children come to understand their gender role by imitating models

Question 3

Name two limitations of SLT

Answer 3

1. Relies too heavily on lab evidence

2. Underestimates influence of biological factors

Question 4

Explain an issue of SLT relying too heavily on evidence from lab studies

Answer 4

Many of Bandura’s studies were carried out in labs - demand characteristics - research may actually tell us very little about children’s everyday life behaviour

Question 5

Explain how SLT underestimates influence of biological factors

Answer 5

A consistent finding in Bobo experiments - boys showed more aggression than girls - despite experimental conditions

Question 6

What may explain why boys showed more aggression than girls

Answer 6

May be explained by testosterone levels - greater quantities in boys - linked to aggression

Question 7

What can be concluded about the role of biological factors

Answer 7

Bandura may have underestimated important influence of biological factors on social learning