SLT AO3

• strengths of SLT


  • recognises cognitive factors of learning
  • reciprocal determinism
• weaknesses of SLT


  • Makes reference of biological factors on social learning
  • evidence was gathered through lab studies
• + recognises cognitive factors in learning

  • classical or operant conditioning cant offer an adequate account of learning on their own
  • humans and animals store information about the behaviour of others and use it to make judgements about when its appropriate to perform certain actions
  • bandura observed learning is hazardous if people relied on effects on actions
  • suggests SLT provides more comprehensive explanation of human learning by recognising the role of mediational processes
• - making reference of influence of biological factors on social learning

  • bandura claimed natural bio differences influenced our learning potential - thought learning itself was determined by the environment
  • research suggests observational learning is result of minor neurons in the brain allowing us to empathise withand imitate others
  • suggests that bio differences influences on social learning were under emphasised in SLT
• - evidence was gathered through lab studies

  • Banduras ideas were developed through observations of young childrens behaviour in the lab
  • lab studies are criticised as p's may respond to demand characteristics
  • the children were behaving in a way they thought was expected
  • suggests that research may tell us little about how children actually lean aggression in everyday life
• + less determinist than behaviourist approach

  • bandura emphasised reciprocal determinism in the sense that we are not influenced by external environment
  • but we exert an influence on it through the behaviours we choose to perform
  • this element suggests theres some free will in the way we behave
  • this contrasts with the behaviourist approach which denies the possibility of free will