social learning theory

Question 1

define SLT

Answer 1

SLT suggests that people learn through the observation and imitation of role models, via vicarious reinforcement with the help of mediational processes

Question 2

assumptions

Answer 2

In addition to classical and operant conditioning, slt proposes people learn through observation and imitation

Question 3

Vicarious reinforcement

Answer 3

so vicarious reinforcement is our tendency to repeat behaviours for which others are being rewarded)

Question 4

mediational processes in learning

Answer 4

Cognitive process involved in the learning and the production of new processes
1. Attention - whether the behaviour is noticed
2. Retention - whether the behaviour is remembered
3. Motor reproduction - being able to do it
4. Motivation - the will to perform the behaviour

Question 5

imitation
and what are the differences between the behaviourist and slt views on this?

Answer 5

• Imitation is more likely if we identify with the model = attractive and have high status.
• Behaviourism says behaviour is definitely going to be repeated but social learning theory says they have a choice, and free will, it only happens if they are physically able to or want to as you believe there’s a reward associated.

Question 6

Bandura et al (1961) - procedure

Answer 6

Lab experiment
- American children, 36 girls and 36 boys aged between 3-6 years old
● Group 1: 12 girls and 12 boys were shown a model hitting the doll with a hammer and shouting at a Bobo doll
● Group 2: shown a model behaving non-aggressively towards a Bobo doll
● Group 3: were not shown a model (control group)

Question 7

Bandura and Walters (1963) - video

Answer 7

● Showed videos to children where an adult behaved aggressively towards the Bobo doll
● Group 1: Saw the adult being praised for the aggressive behaviour (‘well done’)
● Group 2: Saw the adult punished for their aggression towards the doll, by being told off
● Group 3: Saw the aggression without any consequence (control group)

Question 8

bandura et al - results

Answer 8

• When the children who had seen the aggressive model were later observed playing with various toys, including a Bobo doll, they behaved much more aggressively than those who has observed a non-aggressive adult
• supports SLT = shows that children imitate the behaviour of role models even if the behaviour is aggressive.

Question 9

bandura - video results

Answer 9

• When given their own Bobo doll to play with, the first group showed much more aggression, followed by the third group, and the second
• This suggests that modelling aggressive behaviour is more likely if such behaviour is seen to be rewarded (vicarious reinforcement)