A way of explaining behaviour that included both direct (you are the rewarded) and indirect (someone else is rewarded so you imitate the behaviour) reinforcement, combining the learning theory with the role of cognitive factors
Why is SLT described as a 'bridge'?
It's described as a bridge between Behaviourist learning theory and the cognitive approach because it focuses on how mental factors are involved in learning. These mental factors mediate in the learning process to determine whether a new response is acquired.
What are the four mediational processes?
ARRM:
Attention - The extent to which we notice certain behaviours.
Retention - how well the information is remembered
Reproduction - The ability for the observer to perform the behaviour
Motivation - The will to perform to behaviour which is often determined through reward or punishment.
Imitation
Copying other people's behaviours
Modelling
Observer perspective - Imitating the role and behaviour of a role model
Role models perspective - Precise demonstration of a specific behaviour that could be imitated
Identification
When an observer associates themselves with a role model and wants to be like them
Vicarious reinforcement
Reinforcement that is not directly experienced and occurs through watching someone else being reinforced for a behaviour
