psychology- social learning theory

• What is the focus of social learning theory in criminality?

  It states that criminals learn their behaviors through observation.
• Why is observation considered the most important aspect of social learning theory?

  Because it is through observation that criminals learn behaviors from others.
• What do criminals do according to social learning theory?

  They observe other criminals committing acts.
• What are the key terms associated with social learning theory that students must know?

  • Observation
  • Identification
  • Role models
  • Vicarious reinforcement
  • Direct reinforcement
  • Internalization
• What is the process of identification in social learning theory?

  It is when individuals look up to role models and share characteristics with them.
• Who are typically considered role models in social learning theory?

  Parents, peers, and media figures.
• What does vicarious reinforcement mean in the context of social learning theory?

  It means observing someone being rewarded for a behavior, which encourages imitation.
• How might a student decide to copy homework based on vicarious reinforcement?

  If they see a friend praised for copying, they may think it's acceptable to do the same.
• What is direct reinforcement in social learning theory?

  It is when an individual is rewarded for their own behavior directly.
• What is internalization in the context of social learning theory?

  It is when a behavior becomes a normal part of an individual's behavior.
• How does internalization affect a person's behavior regarding consequences?


  Behaviors are performed regardless of the consequences, whether good or bad.
• How might someone internalize the behavior of stealing after observing a family member?

  They may start stealing themselves, believing it is acceptable behavior.
• What is a criticism of social learning theory regarding the origin of criminal behavior?

  It questions where the first criminal learned their behavior if all behavior is imitated.
• What does social learning theory tend to emphasize in the nature vs. nurture debate?

  It emphasizes the role of nurture over nature in criminal behavior.
• What is a potential genetic explanation that social learning theory may overlook?

  The possibility of a criminal gene influencing behavior.