Identification + Bobo Doll

Question 1

What did Bandura claim about identification with a role model?

Answer 1

Bandura claimed that identification with role model is key and that children are more likely to imitate the behaviour of those they identify - usually those similar to the observer but with slightly higher status; for example a boy may identify and imitate their older brother.

Question 2

Bandura and Walters Bobo doll study supports this theory. What happened in the study?

Answer 2

Bandura and Walters Bobo doll study supports this theory. In this study children in three conditions saw an adult hit a Bobo doll and either be rewarded, punished or no consequences (control).

Question 3

What were the children who observe the aggressive behaviour being rewarded or punished more likely to do?

Answer 3

The children who saw the behaviour being rewarded were more likely to model the aggressive behaviour. The children who saw the behaviour being punished were least likely to model the behaviour.

Question 4

What does this study suggest about modelling aggressive behaviour?

Answer 4

This study suggests that modelling aggressive behaviour is more likely if such behaviour is seen to be rewarded.