Social learning theory

Question 1

social learning theory

Answer 1

learning based on observation and imitation of models and vicarious reinforcement

Question 2

basic assumptions

Answer 2

learn from environment, doesn’t regard genetics
learned from observing others and the reinforcement or punishment they receive
considers cognitive process behind behaviour

Question 3

Bandura’s research 1961

Answer 3

36 male and 36 female participant with a mean age of just over 4
participants watch a video of same sex model some aggressive some not
then children were paced in a room of toys they could play with which included bobo dolls and aggressive toys and non-aggressive toys and were observed for 20 minutes
they found that the children exposed to the aggressive model acted aggressively. and that boys acted more aggressive than girls, greater level of imitation of the model was the same sex as the child
behaviour is effected by models

this was a short term experiment difficult to see if this had lasting effects
issues with validity as most would hit a bobo doll as that’s what they were made for

Question 4

imitation

Answer 4

simulation of models behaviour

Question 5

identification

Answer 5

identifying a model based on similarity to you
increased likelihood of imitation when action is performed by someone similar to the individual observing their behaviour

Question 6

modelling

Answer 6

the imitation of someone’s behaviour, called modelling the behaviour

Question 7

vicarious reinforcement

Answer 7

observe the model receiving a reward meaning the observer is more likely to imitate as they want that reward too
learns by watching the consequences of another’s actions

Question 8

mediational process

Answer 8

ARRM
Attention - pay attention to the behaviour we want to imitate. attention is crucial because we observe many behaviours but many aren’t noteworthy
Retention - you may pay attention to a behaviour but it must also be retained so you know how to replicate it
Reproduction - doing the behaviour we observed and remembered, limited by physical capabilities
Motivation - the rewards or punishments following the behaviour, behaviour will be repeated in met with reward and less likely if met with punishment

Question 9

evaluation

Answer 9

takes learning into account
successfully shows why some behaviour are replicated
not a full explanation for all behaviour
criticised for being unscientific