Social learning theory as applied to gender development

• What does Social Learning Theory (SLT) suggest about behavior?

  Behavior is learned from observing others
• What aspect of the nature vs. nurture debate does SLT emphasize?

  It emphasizes the NURTURE side of the argument
• Who are considered powerful role models in SLT?

  Parents, teachers, and peers
• What role do social norms and media play in SLT?

  They influence behavior through cultural expectations
• What is the first step in the mediational processes of SLT?

  Attention to the behavior being modeled
• What does retention in SLT refer to?

  Remembering the behavior that was observed
• How does motivation influence behavior in SLT?

  It encourages reproduction of observed behavior
• What is motor reproduction in the context of SLT?

  The physical ability to reproduce the behavior
• What are the four mediational processes in SLT?

  1. Attention
  2. Retention
  3. Motivation
  4. Motor Reproduction
• What is modeling in the context of SLT?

  Demonstrating behavior for imitation
• Who are more likely to be modeled according to SLT?

  Individuals we identify with or admire
• What is vicarious reinforcement?

  Learning by observing rewards given to others
• How might a child respond to seeing a parent rewarded for a behavior?

  They may imitate that behavior
• What is direct reinforcement in SLT?

  Receiving praise for one's own behavior
• What is differential reinforcement?

  Encouragement of distinct gender-appropriate behavior
• What are the strengths of the Social Learning Theory of gender development?

  • Supporting evidence from Smith & Lloyd
  • Explains changes in gender norms over time
• What did Smith & Lloyd's study demonstrate?

  Adults treat babies differently based on clothing color
• How does SLT explain changes in gender norms?

  By observing new acceptable behaviors
• What are the weaknesses of the Social Learning Theory of gender development?

  • Ignores cognitive development
  • Ignores biological influences
  • Over-relies on conscious processes
• What does Kohlberg's theory suggest about gender development?

  Children become active after reaching gender constancy
• What does the case of David Reimer illustrate?

  Chromosomal influence cannot be overridden
• How does SLT explain cultural differences in gender development?

  Different cultures have varying role models
• What does Freud suggest about SLT's explanation of gender development?

  It over-relies on conscious mediational processes
• Why might SLT be considered a simplistic explanation of gender development?

  It overlooks unconscious influences on behavior
• What is the primary focus of SLT in gender development?

  The role of environmental influences