social learning theory Flashcards
defintion and key concepts
key points
Social learning theory, developed by Albert Bandura, posits that individuals learn behaviors through observation, imitation, and modeling.
It serves as a bridge between behaviorism and cognitive approaches, emphasizing the role of cognitive processes in learning.
Unlike traditional behaviorists like Skinner, Bandura views humans as active information processors who consider the consequences of their actions.
The theory emphasizes the significance of observing and imitating the behaviors and emotional responses of others.
It integrates environmental and cognitive factors, suggesting that learning is influenced by both external stimuli and internal thought processes.
Bandura acknowledges classical and operant conditioning but introduces the idea of mediating processes that occur between stimuli and responses.
Observational learning is a key component, where individuals learn from the environment through watching others.
attention
Attention is crucial for observational learning; mere exposure to a model does not guarantee that the observer will pay attention.
The model must engage the observer’s interest, making the behavior worth imitating.
Observers must form a mental representation of the behavior to consider imitation.
Factors influencing attention include the model’s attractiveness, status, and the observer’s own interests.
retention
Retention involves symbolically storing the observed behavior in memory for later recall.
Successful imitation requires that behaviors are organized into templates that can be easily remembered.
The retention process is vital for behaviors that are not immediately reproduced, as memory serves as a reference for future imitation.
Bandura emphasized that without retention, even noticed behaviors cannot be imitated.
motor reproduction
Motor reproduction refers to the physical ability to perform the observed behavior.
Limitations in physical ability can prevent imitation, even if the observer wishes to replicate the behavior.
motivation
Motivation involves the perceived consequences of imitating a behavior, which can either encourage or discourage imitation.
Observers weigh the potential rewards against the costs of performing the behavior.
Vicarious reinforcement plays a role; if the observer sees the model rewarded, they are more likely to imitate the behavior.
Conversely, if the observer perceives negative consequences, they are less likely to engage in the behavior.
Observational learning
Observational learning is a fundamental aspect of social learning theory, where individuals learn by watching others.
It often involves modeling behaviors from figures who are similar, high-status, or nurturing.
This learning process is particularly significant in childhood, as children observe and imitate behaviors from parents, peers, and media.
role models
Models are individuals whose behaviors are observed and imitated.
Influential models include parents, teachers, peers, and media characters.
The presence of positive role models can significantly shape behavior and skill development in children.
Understanding the impact of models helps educators and psychologists foster positive behaviors in various settings.
banduras bobo doll experiment
The Bobo Doll Experiment (1961) by Bandura demonstrated that children learn aggressive behaviors through observation.
Participants were divided into groups: aggressive model, non-aggressive model, and control group.
Findings showed that children exposed to aggressive models were more likely to imitate aggressive behaviors.
This experiment highlights the implications of media influence on behavior, suggesting that exposure to violence can lead to increased aggression in viewers.
