Social learning theory

Question 1

The process

Answer 1

Gender is learnt through observation
Child identifies with a role model
If a child observes direct reward for gender related behaviours then the child is vicariously reinforced so more likely to imitate (modelling) Boys and girls are differentially reinforced.

Question 2

What is it aided by

Answer 2

mediational processes- attention, retention, motivation and motor reproduction.

Question 3

Explains maintenance of stereotypes

Answer 3

Smith and Lloyd- 4-6 month old babies dressed 50% as girls or boys. Boys were given male toys/ adventurous. Girls given dolls/ told looked pretty.

Question 4

Ignores role of biology

Answer 4

David Reimer never took on the reinforcement from his mother, he may have identified with his brother.

Question 5

Doesn’t acknowledge constructivism

Answer 5

Adults respond to innate gender differences e.g boys are stronger so encouraged to be more adventurous.