Approaches - Social Learning Theory Flashcards
What does social learning theory (SLT) propose about learning?
Albert Bandura argued that much of our behaviour is learned from experience. Social learning theory (SLT) suggests that learning occurs through observation and imitation of others within a social context. It combines classical and operant conditioning but also involves indirect learning.
What is vicarious reinforcement in SLT?
Vicarious reinforcement is indirect learning where individuals observe the behaviour of others. Imitation occurs if the behaviour is seen to be rewarded (reinforced) rather than punished. Observing the consequences of a behaviour is crucial for vicarious reinforcement.
How does SLT act as a ‘bridge’ between traditional learning theory and cognitive approaches?
SLT incorporates mental (cognitive) processes in learning. Bandura identified four mediational processes:
Attention – the extent to which we notice certain behaviours.
Retention – how well the behaviour is remembered.
Motor reproduction – the ability to perform the behaviour.
Motivation – the will to perform the behaviour, often determined by whether the behaviour is rewarded or punished.
The first two are about learning, while the last two are about performance.
What is the role of identification in SLT?
Identification occurs when people, especially children, are more likely to imitate the behaviour of people they identify with (role models). This process is called modelling. A person becomes a role model if they share similar characteristics with the observer or appear attractive and have high status. Role models may be present in the environment or portrayed in the media.
How did Bandura et al.’s (1961) Bobo doll experiment demonstrate SLT?
Bandura et al. (1961) showed that children who observed an adult behaving aggressively towards a Bobo doll imitated the behaviour. When later allowed to play, the children acted more aggressively towards the doll and other toys than those who had observed a non-aggressive adult.
What is one evaluation point about the importance of cognitive factors in learning?
SLT provides a more comprehensive explanation of human learning than traditional approaches, as it recognizes the role of mediational processes. Bandura stated that learning would be exceedingly laborious if we relied solely on the effects of our actions to inform us what to do. Observing others provides a guide to future actions.
What is one evaluation point about the over-reliance on evidence from lab studies?
Many of Bandura’s ideas are based on lab studies, which have been criticized for demand characteristics. For example, in the Bobo doll experiment, the main purpose of a Bobo doll is to strike it. This means the children may have simply been behaving as expected, reducing the studies’ application to everyday aggression.
What is one evaluation point about biological factors in learning?
Bandura made little reference to the influence of biological factors. For example, boys in the Bobo doll studies were more aggressive than girls, regardless of the experimental situation. This may be explained by hormonal factors, such as differences in testosterone, a hormone linked to increased aggression.
What is one evaluation point about explaining cultural differences in behaviour?
SLT explains cultural differences in behaviour as children learn from individuals around them and through the media. This has proved useful in understanding how cultural norms are transmitted. For instance, it can explain why different societies exhibit varying behaviours.
