Social Learning Theory

Question 1

Social learning theory

Answer 1

Explains aggression through direct and indirect reinforcement, combining cognitive factors

Question 2

How do children acquire aggressive behaviours?

Answer 2

Observational learning, internalising the aggressive acts carried out by role models. Children observe consequences of the behaviour and are more likely to imitate if the behaviour is rewarded (vicarious reinforcement). Children are more likely to imitate if they identify with the model (eg. Gender)

Question 3

Mediational processes

Answer 3

Cognitive factors that influence whether new response is acquired (attention, retention, motor reproduction and motivation)

Question 4

Self-efficacy

Answer 4

Sense we believe our actions will achieve desired goals

Question 5

Strengths of social learning theory

Answer 5

• Research supporting social reinforcement (eg. Poulin & Boivin found aggressive young boys often form cliques with other aggressive boys, providing social approval)
• Real world application of cultural norms (eg. Kung San not exposed to aggression, therefore don’t mediate aggression)

Question 6

Limitations of social learning theory

Answer 6

• Reactive aggression (eg. Poulin & Boivin found boys observed others reactive aggression but didn’t imitate due to unpredictable consequences and lack of planning)
• Ignores biological influences (eg. Bandura emphasises environmental factors, ignoring genetic or hormonal factors)