Learning approach KC3: Social learning theory

Question 1

what is the definition of social learning theory

Answer 1

learning via observation and imitation of others (models)

Question 2

imitation

Answer 2

the observer imitates the models

Question 3

observation

Answer 3

the person observes a models behaviour

Question 4

models

Answer 4

the observer may imitate your actions

Question 5

vicarious reinforcement

Answer 5

the observer is more likely to imitate the model if the model gets rewarded

Question 6

Identification

Answer 6

if the observer looks similar or is of a similar age to the model, then they are more likely to imitate the models behaviour

Question 7

Bandura

Answer 7

research to support (bobo dolls)

Question 8

Bandura- case study

Answer 8

Aim-
to investigate if aggression is a learnt behaviour.

Procedure-
lab experiment (controlled environment). tested boys and girls aged 3-5 years. the children were put into 1 of 3 conditions for 10 minutes. 1) children observed adult play aggressively with the bobo doll (aggressive model). 2) children observed adult play calmly with the bobo doll (non-aggressive model). 3) children did not observe an adult (control condition). Each child was then frustrated and put into a room with a bobo doll where their behaviour was observed.

Findings-
the kids imitated the behaviour of the adults.

Conclusion-
aggression can be a learnt behaviour.

Question 9

name 2 strengths of the social learning theory

Answer 9

1. there is research to support the social learning theory

Bandura found that children who observed an adult behaving aggressively with the bobo doll (aggressive model) imitated the adults aggressive behaviour. In contrast, the children who observed the adults play calmly with the bobo doll (non-aggressive model) also played calmly with it. this suggests that children learn and imitate behaviour (in this case aggression) from observing others.

2. Has practical application so is useful

it has been used to reduce anti-social behaviour and to promote pro-social behaviour by controlling what appears on children’s tv and by putting age ratings on movies and games. successful application adds validity to the theory.

Question 10

name 1 limitation of the social learning theory

Answer 10

1. Kendler found that aggression levels in identical twins was more similar than in non-identical twins. This suggests that aggression may be caused by genes, a factor which social learning theory does not consider.