social learning theory- bandura, bobo doll and behaviour modification Flashcards
observational learning theory
the process of learning through watching a model, observing the consequences, and then deciding whether they will imitate the model or not
mediating processes of observational learning
- attention
- retention
- reproduction
- motivation
- reinforcement
vicarious reinforcement
a form of observational learning in which the observed consequences of the models action directly impact the learners behaviour
-occurs when the frequency of certain behaviors increases as a result of observing others rewarded for the same behaviors
strengths of social learning theory
-when there are situations where only observational learning can occur
- supported by evidence such as bobo doll
-provides a more comprehensive explanation of human learning by recognizing the role of mediational processes
limitations of banduras social learning theory
- doesnt fully explain cognitive proceses involved in learning
- neglects biological factors
bobo doll aim- bandura ross and rosss 1961
to determine whether children will acqure aggresive behvaours through observing the modelling of aggression by adults
- also are there gender differences
independent variable for bobo doll
exposure of children to aggresive adult models vs non aggressive model
dependent variable for bobo doll
observed aggresive levels in children recorded every 5 seconds over 20 minutes
strengths of bandura ross and ross 1961 bobo doll experiment
applicable to the invention of modern media and television
- precise control of variables- ie gender
can be replacated
limitations of bobo doll experiment
laboratory setting- lacks external validity
could cause psychological distress if children have never witnessed aggressive behaviour before
potential experimenter effect because one of the male models was also one of the observers
systematic desensitisation
a type of therapy that combines relaxation techniques with gradual exposure to overcome a phobia
benefits of systematic desensitistion
- specific to indiviidual
- relaxation can help with anxiety in general
limitations of systematic desensitasation
-can be a slow process
- not effective on mental disorders
- underlying cause of phobia not addressed
token economies
behaviour modification techniques based on operant conditioning
steps of token economies
- set up target behaviour and goals
- Establish the number of tokens to be earned to earn primary reinforcers
- choose primary reinforcer
strengths and weaknesses of token economies
Individuals learn to postpone satisfaction of basic needs
easy to avoid saturation
weaknesses-
- number of tokens must be reasonable
- target goals need to be specifically outlined
