Social Learning

Question 1

Define Imitaion

Answer 1

Copying the behaviour of others

Question 2

Define Identification

Answer 2

When an observer associates themselves with a role model and want to be like their role model

Question 3

Define Modelling

Answer 3

Form the observer’s perspective, imitation of the role model’s behaviours
From the role model’s perspective, the precise demonstration of a specific behaviour that may be an imitation by an observer

Question 4

Define Vicarious Reinforcement

Answer 4

A key factor in imitation with which reinforcement occurs through observation.
It is not directly experienced

Question 5

Define Mediational Processes

Answer 5

Cognitive factors (i.e. thinking) that influences learning and come between the stimulus and response

Question 6

What does Social Learning Theory involve?

Answer 6

• Concerned with how people learn when they observe others
• can be seen as a ‘bridge’ between traditional learning theory and the Cognitive approach as it focuses on how mental (cognitive) factors are involved in learning and the importance of environmental and reinforcement
• Majority involves laboratory experiments in which quantifiable behaviour is observed

Question 7

4 Assumptions of Social Learning Theory

Answer 7

> We learn through the observation and imitation of others in a social context
We learn through observation or modelling, which involves identification, imitation and reinforcement
States we learn indirectly and directly through classical and operant conditioning
Mediating Cognitive factors play and important role in observational learning, this involves attention, retention, reproduction and motivation

Question 8

What is meant by Vicarious Reinforcement?

Answer 8

• A key factor in imitation, in which reinforcement occurs through observation that is not directly experienced
• If an individual were to observe a behaviour with a positive consequence (reward, reinforced) they will imitate it
• The individual will observe the behaviour but more importantly the consequence

Question 9

The Role of Mediational Processes

Answer 9

• The mental factors mediate in the learning process to determine whether a new response is acquired

Question 10

4 Mental or Mediational Processes in learning identified by Bandura

Answer 10

1. Attention - the extent to which we notice certain behaviours
2. Retention - how well the behaviour is remembered
3. Motor Reproduction - the ability of the observer to perform the behaviour
4. Motivation - the will to perform the behaviour, often determined by whether the behaviour was rewarded or punished

Question 11

What Identification involves

Answer 11

• People (especially children) are more likely to imitate behaviours of someone they identify (role model) = modelling
• A person becomes a role-model if they possess similar characteristics to the observer and/ or are attractive and have a high status
• They may not be physically present, so this is why the media has important implications on behaviour

Answer 12

• By recognising the role of Mediational Processes, SLT provides a more comprehensive explanation of human behaviour
• Neither classical or operant conditioning can explain learning
• Humans and animals store information about behaviour of others and uses this to make judgement about when it is appropriate

Answer 13

• SLT takes into account that children learn from other individuals around them and through the media
• Helps explain how cultural norms are transmitted through particular societies
• This has helped understand a range of behaviours i.e. how children come to understand their gender roles

Answer 14

• The recent findings of mirror neurons in primates may constitute a neurological and biological basis for imitation