Social Learning Theory Flashcards
What does SLT suggest
SLT suggests that behaviour can be learned by simply observing others so we do not have to learn directly. The “others” we learn from are role models eg parents siblings peers
Vicarious reinforcement
Observing behaviour and noting the consequences it brings
If we see someone rewarded, we are likely to copy them.
If behaviour has been punished, we are less likely to imitate it
Cognitive processes
SLT is the bridge between the cognitive and behaviourism approach as it recognises cognitive processes
What are the four mediational processes
1) Attention
2) Retention
3) Motor reproduction
4) Motivation
ARRM
What is Attention
Whether behaviour is noticed.
- Relates to the learning of behaviour
What is Retention
Whether behaviour is remembered.
- Relates to the learning of behaviour
What is Motor reproduction
The ability of the observer to preform the behaviour.
- Relates to the performance of behaviour
What is Motivation
The will to preform the behaviour
- Relates to the performance of behaviour
Identification
Observation takes place as a result of identification with a role model.
- This is that we admire a specific person + want to be like them in our behaviour.
- Identification with a model is more likely to lead to imitation of their behaviour.
What did Bandura do?
Study the role of imitation in learning aggressive behaviour.
Banduras Procedure
2 groups of children -
1) saw an adult in a room full of toys being violent
2) saw an adult playing in a non violent way
Each child was left alone in the room with toys + observed on film.
Banduras findings
Without direct encouragement, group 1 showed more aggressive acts.
This supports SLT as it shows we can learn via observation of models.
Bandura and Walton
3 groups of children being shown films of an adult behaving aggressive towards a ‘Bobo Doll’
Group 1) Adult was praised for their behaviour by another adult
Group 2) Children saw the adult being punished
Group 3) Saw no consequence (Control group)
Evaluation of SLT 👍
👍shows having a role model can make learning more efficient as we do not have to learn through our own experiences
👍SLT is less mechanistic/deterministic than behaviourism - offers a more comprehensive account of how humans learn
👍Scientific approach lab based empirical evidence to support assumptions of SLT.
Studies can be replicated which allows studies to be validated.
RWA
Bandura and Walton findings
Group 1 showed most aggression to their own ‘Bobo Doll’, followed by group 3 and then group 2. This shows imitation depends on the consequence
