Social Learning Theory (Bandura 1986)

Question 1

Modelling

Answer 1

Behaviour or attitude demonstrated by someone for others to learn from.

Can be live or symbolic

Question 2

Imitation

Answer 2

Rapid acquisition of behaviour patterns compared to slow conditioning.

Determinants: the model’s characteristics, observer’s ability and consequences of the model’s behaviour.

Question 3

Vicarious Reinforcement

Answer 3

Learning about consequences through others’ experiences.

Children are more likely to imitate behaviour if they see model rewarded, not punished.

Individuals adjust behaviour based on observed outcomes rather than direct experiences.

Question 3

Identification

Answer 3

Relating to and feeling similar to a model.

Higher identification increases likelihood of imitation.

Children identify more with similar models (e.g. same-sex)

Question 4

Mediational Processes

Answer 4

Internal cognitive processes essential for social learning.

Question 5

Mediational Process Roles:
Mental Representations

Answer 5

Forming cognitive images of behaviour and expected outcomes.

Question 6

Mediational Process Roles:
Decision Making

Answer 6

Behaviour is displayed when expected positive outcomes.