Learning approaches: Social Learning Theory

Question 1

What are four evaluation points?

Answer 1

1) Scientific methods
2) Practical applications
3) Soft determinism
4) Alternative biological explanation

Question 2

AO3: Scientific methods

Answer 2

A strength of the social learning theory is that it uses scientific methods so it uses scientific enquiry to investigate human behaviour. It uses objective and empirical techniques such as Bandura’s Bobo doll experiment. This had high control over extraneous variables by having the role model model the same types of aggression to each child. Therefore this increases the internal validity of the social learning theory as it increases Pyschology’s Scientific Status.

Question 3

AO3: Practical applications

Answer 3

A strength of the social learning theory to explaining human behaviour is that it has practical applications. The principles of the theory that behaviour is due to observing and imitating a model has been used by the government to control how the media portrays certain behaviours e.g. restricted advertisement of alcohol, cigarette and gambling to reduce negative behaviours. Therefore the social learning theory is an important part of applied psychology as it helps to promote positive behaviours in real life.

Question 4

AO3: Soft determinism

Answer 4

A strength of the social learning theory is that it has soft determinism as individuals have free will in learning compared to deterministic theories such as behaviourism which states individuals have no choice in learning. All human behaviour is due to external factors through observing and imitating a model however individuals can choose whether to imitate a behaviour and who they choose their model to be. Therefore the social learning theory can be seen as a more superior explanation compared to hard deterministic theories.

Question 5

AO3: Alternative biological explanation

Answer 5

An alternative explanation of social learning theory in explaining human behaviour is the biological approach. This states that behaviour is due to internal influences such as genes and hormones rather than learning through observation. The social learning theory underestimates the role of hormones in Bandura’s Bobo Doll research as one consistent finding was that boys were more aggressive regardless of the situation. The difference could be due to hormones (different levels of testosterone in girls and boys). Rather than aggression shown by observing and imitating the model. Therefore this shows that Social learning theory is not the only explanation of human behaviour.