Learning theory: social learning theory Flashcards
What are the basic assumptions of the learning theory ?
- developing behaviouralist ideas
- learning behaviours - imitation and observation
- learning occurs both directly (classical and operant) and indirectly
What was Bandura’s study ?
- Recorded behaviour of young children who watched an adult be aggressive to a bobo doll (shouted abuse etc)
- When the child witnessed aggressive behaviour, they were more likely to be aggressive
- Control group showed no aggression
What is vicarious reinforcement ?
- imitation only occurs if the behaviour is reinforced
- indirect reinforcement
What is meditational processes ?
Mental factors intervene in the learning process to determine whether a new response is acquired
1. Attention - noticing behaviour
2. Retention - how well the behaviour is remembered
3. Motor reproduction - observers ability to do the action
4. Motivation - the will to perform the behaviour, determined by rewarding or punishing
1 + 2 = learning
3 + 4 = performing
What is identification ?
- when people are more likely to imitate the people that they identify with
- The person that they identify with = role model
- Process of imitation = modelling
What are the strengths of the social learning theory ?
Recognises cognitive factors =
Explains human behaviour through a meditational process that influences learning. More comprehensive and looks at both the environment and cognition.
Cultural differences =
Modelling and imitation account for how children learn from others and the media. Explains how cultural norms are transmitted across society. Explains how kids learn the gender roles in society.
What are the limitations of the social learning theory ?
Lab experiments =
Used labs to test observations and imitation. May be subjected to demand characteristics. E.g Bobo doll has been created for hitting (artificial tasks)
Ignores other factors =
the way we learn changes depending on biology (hormones + personality)
