Social cognitive theory

Question 1

Social cognitive learning theory

Answer 1

Assumes that humans learn behaviour through observational learning

Question 2

vicarious reinforcement

Answer 2

When someone learns a behaviour by observing another person being rewarded for that behaviour. Occurs when learners observe role models receiving either positive or negative reinforcement.

Question 3

Attention

Answer 3

In order to learn a behaviour, the learner must pay attention to the model. There are certain factors that may influence whether attention is paid to the model, including the attractiveness of the model, the authority of the model, or the desirability of the behaviour.

Question 4

Retention

Answer 4

The observer must be able to remember the behaviour that has been observed in order to produce that behaviour immediately or after some time.

Question 5

Motivation

Answer 5

Learners must want to replicate the behaviour that they have observed. In order to do this, they must understand what the potential outcome is if they repeat the behaviour – what Bandura called outcome expectancies.

Question 6

Potential

Answer 6

In order to reproduce an observed behaviour, observers must physically and/or mentally be able to carry out the behaviour - that is, there needs to be a certain level of self-efficacy.

Question 7

Factors that may influence whether or not the observer decides to imitate and learn (consistency)

Answer 7

Consistency: If the model behaves in a way that is consistent across situations—for example, always being brave—then the observer will be more likely to imitate the model than if the model behaves in different ways depending on the situation.

Question 8

Factors that may influence whether or not the observer decides to imitate and learn (Identification)

Answer 8

Identification with the model: There is a tendency to imitate models who are like us — for example, in terms of age and gender.

Question 9

Factors that may influence whether or not the observer decides to imitate and learn (Liking the model)

Answer 9

Liking the model: Warm and friendly models are more likely to be imitated than cold, uncaring models

Question 10

Self-efficacy

Answer 10

One’s belief in one’s ability to successfully accomplish as task