Social Learning Theory Flashcards
What are the assumptions of SLT?
Behaviour is learnt through experience, observation and imitation of others.
Agreed with behaviourists that behaviour is learnt through experience
What is vicarious reinforcement
For indirect learning —> on individual observers of behaviour of others. Imitation only occurs when a behaviour seen is rewarded rather than punished
(Bandura’s research) observed consequence
List the 4 meditational processes
Attention
Retention
Motor reproduction
Motivation
What is motor reproduction?
Ability to perform a certain behaviour
What is identification?
People (especially children) are more likely to imitate people they identify with. This person is called a role model and process of imitating a role model is called modelling.
When is someone likely to become a role model?
If a person is seen to posses similar characteristics to the observer and or attractive or have a high status
Describe how cognitive factors are a strength of SLT (AO3)
Recognises importance of cognitive factors in learning. Classical and operant conditioning alone is an inadequate account for learning. Suggests SLT provides a more comprehensive explanation of human learning by recognising role of meditational processes.
Describe the counterpoint (AO3)
SLT criticised for little reference to biological factors on social learning. Even though Bandura claimed natural biological differences influenced learning potential, he thought learning itself was determined by the environment.
Newer research suggests observational learning may be due to mirror neurones
Describe one limitation of SLT (AO3)
Contrived lab studies
Banduras ideas developed through observation of young h children in a lab. Lab studies critisised for their contrived nature where PPS respond to demand characteristics.
Said that children hit bobo doll as that’s what they thought was expected of them. Therefore this research may tell us little of how children learn aggression
