Social Learning Theory Flashcards
Social learning theory
Explaining behaviour including direct and indirect factors of reinforcement, combining the learning theory with cognitive approach
Imitation
Copying others behaviour
Identification
When someone associates themselves with a role model and wants to be like them
Modelling
Imitating the behaviour of a role model
Vicarious reinforcement
Reinforcement that is not directly experienced, but occurs through observing someone else being reinforced for their behaviour
Imitation only occurs if
The behaviour seen is rewarded
SLT us described to be a bridge between
The learning theory and the cognitive approach
four mediational processes
- Attention
- Retention
- Motor reproduction
- Motivation
Attention
The extent to which we notice certain behaviours
Retention
How well the behaviour is remembered
Motor reprouduction
The ability of the observer to perform behaviour
Motivation
The will to perform behaviour, often determined by whether the behaviour was rewarded or punished
Identification
We are more likely to imitat someone we identify with
What did Bandura study?
The behaviour of children, after they watch the aggressive behaviour of adults
Which aspect of the SLT does Bandura study show?
Imitation
The strengths of SLT
Recognises the importance of cognitive factors in learning
Weaknesses of SLT
- not many references to biological factors of learning
- The evidence for SLT was gathered in lab studies, and the children’s behaviour may not be a result of the social learning theory
Reciprocal determinism
We are influenced by our environment, and we influence it
