Evaluations - A03

• Strength of social learning theory - more holistic explanation for human behaviour in comparison to behavioural approach. SLT acknowledges mental processing, considers combination of behaviour and cognitions and therefore not reductionist. Uses of mediational processes means individual seen as having more control over behaviour makes it less deterministic. SLT gives individual more power to change unhealthy behaviour and understands importance of motivation in reproduction of certain behaviour. Therefore SLT gives more comprehensive explanation for human behaviour thus increasing validity.
• Strength of social learning theory - support from Bandura; showed video clips of bobo doll being hit by adult. Children imitated aggressive behaviours towards bobo doll. Demonstrates observation of role models behaviour can lead to imitation through identification as children chose to imitate same sex role models which backs up proposal made by SLT. Therefore increases validity of SLT as explanation of human behaviour.
• Limitation of social learning theory - may still be an incomplete explanation because it underestimates influence of biological factors. Eg in Bandura's study, boys more aggressive towards bobo doll however may be explained by biological factor of high testosterone levels making then more aggressively naturally. Not accounted for by SLT which means it can be considered reductionist as it simplifies human behaviour down to observation and imitation but in reality other factors can moderate whether we imitate behaviour. Therefore, reduces validity of SLT as explanation of human behaviour.
• Limitation of social learning theory - cannot explain development of all behaviours. Abnormal and psychopathic behaviours not fully explained by SLT. Schizophrenia due to additional voices in head and delusions that cannot be imitated and observed. Similarly, depression cannot be imitated by people. Means there are numerous behaviours which cannot be explained by SLT limiting explanatory scope and perhaps other approaches such as cognitive approach can offer better explanation for abnormal behaviours such as depression. Therefore reduces validity of SLT as explanation of all behaviours.