Social Learning Theory

Question 1

the SLT believe behaviour is learnt through

Answer 1

observation and imitation within a social context

Question 2

assumption 1:
identification

Answer 2

people learn aggressive behaviour primarily by observing the behaviour of role models with whom they identify and then imitating the behaviour
This is known as modelling

Question 3

Bandura’s Bobo doll study 1961

Answer 3

Bandura recorded behaviour of young children who watched an adult behave aggressively towards the doll. When these kids where later observed, they behaved much more aggressively towards the doll and other toys than those who observed a non-aggressive adult

Question 4

assumption 2: Vicarious reinforcement

Answer 4

people observe and learn the consequences of behaviour by watching others being rewarded or punished for their behaviour.
indirect learning - watching behaviour of others

Question 5

assumption 3: role of mediational factors in learning behaviour

Answer 5

attention - extent to which we notice certain behaviours
retention - how well we remember behaviour
motor reproduction - ability of observer to perform behaviour
motivation - desire to perform behaviour (determined if punished/rewarded)

Question 6

evaluation
strengths: useful

Answer 6

P: the SLT has been useful for real life applications
E: SLT demonstrated how children are affected by violence they observe (eg Bandura). so strategies put in place to limit observable behaviour. eg age restrictions
C: approach used to protect children on everyday basis. limit affect of observable violence

Question 7

evaluation
strength: scientific

Answer 7

P: scientific - uses lab experiments
E: Bandura could study vicarious reinforcement scientifically
C: high control over EVs - cause and effect established. in this study Positive consequence caused aggression in children

Question 8

evaluation
limitations: reductionist

Answer 8

P: reductionist
E: reduces it down to observation and imitation. SLT ignored biology. males more aggressive - testosterone.
C: limited understanding of behaviour. but less reductionist than others as does acknowledge cognitive factors.

Question 9

evaluation
limitations: determinist

Answer 9

P: determinist
E: behaviour governed by observation and imitation. SLT says criminal behaviour has been observed and imitated by an individual
C: negative impact on legal system. no responsibility so punishment is difficult