Social learning theory - AO1

Question 1

What is social learning theory?

Answer 1

Acknowledges the role that the social context plays in development and states that all behaviour is learnt from observing others

• Draws attention to the influence of the environment (nurture) in shaping development

Question 2

What is direct reinforcment?

Answer 2

Children are more likely to be reinforced for demonstrating behaviour that is stereotypically gender appropriate

• Boys: active, assertive and engage in rough and tumble play
• Girls: passive, gentle and staying close to parent

Question 3

What is differential reinforcement?

Answer 3

The way in which boys and girls are encouraged to show distinct gender appropriatee behaviour
Child learns gender identity through this

Question 4

What is vicarious reinforcement?

Answer 4

When the consequence of another person’s behaviour is favourable, the behaviour is more likely to be imitated by a child
E.g little girl sees mother being complimented for her make up, the girl may try copy this behaviour when she is able

Question 5

What is identification?

Answer 5

Process where child attaches to person who posesses qualities that the child sees as desirable (role models)

• Role models may be in the child’s environment or the media
• Tend to be attractive, high status and are usually same gender as child

Question 6

What is modelling?

Answer 6

Precise demonstration of a behaviour that may be imitated by an observer

• Mother may model stereotypically feminine behaviour when tidying the house

Question 7

What are mediation processes?

Answer 7

Central to the learning of gender behaviour…