Social Learning Theory (SLT) [16 marker]

Question 1

According to SLT, how is behaviour learned?

Answer 1

Through observation and imitation of others.

Question 2

What is vicarious reinforcement in SLT?

Answer 2

Imitating behaviour when a model is observed being rewarded.

Question 3

What makes a person more likely to be imitated according to SLT?

Answer 3

If they are seen as a role model or share characteristics with the observer.

Question 4

What are mediational processes in SLT?

Answer 4

Mental processes that influence whether a behaviour is imitated (attention, retention, reproduction, motivation).

Question 5

What biological criticism is there of SLT?

Answer 5

It underestimates biological influences like gender differences (e.g., boys being more aggressive).

Question 6

What strength of SLT explains cultural differences?

Answer 6

SLT can explain cultural variations as behaviours are learned through modelling.

Question 7

How does SLT demonstrate the role of cognitive factors?

Answer 7

It explains learning through mediational processes, unlike behaviourism.

Question 8

What is a methodological limitation of SLT research?

Answer 8

Many studies (e.g., Bandura’s) were conducted in lab settings and risk demand characteristics.