Social learning theory

• Assumptions of the social learning theory

  Suggests we learn though observation and imitation of others
• Vicarious reinforcement

  Behavior that occurs through watching someone else experience reinforcement
• Albert Bandura proposed the Social learning theory
• Social learning theory is often described as the bridge the behaviourist approach and the cognitive approach
• The 4 mental or meditational processes

  1. Attention - How well we notice behaviours
  2. Retention - How well we remember
  3. Motor reproduction - The ability to preform
  4. Motivation - the will to preform behaviour
• Identification

  The process where an individual adopts behaviors, attitudes, and values of someone they admire or who they see as a role model
• Banduras research (1961) - Study 1


  1. A child watched an adult behave aggressively towards a doll
  2. The children would then behave aggressively towards the toys than children who had observed a non aggressive adult
• Bandurah and Walter research (1963) - Study 2


  1. The children watched an adult act aggressively towards a doll
  2. 1 Group saw the adult being praised
  3. Group 2 saw the adult punished
  4. Group 3 ( Control ) saw nothing happen
  5. Group 1 showed more aggression than group 2 and 3
• Evaluation - Strength - recognises the importance of cognitive factors

  Classical and operant conditioning are too simplistic, this provides context

  Counterpoint

  Too little biological approach mentioned
• Evaluation - Limitation - only lab studies


  This may result in demand characteristics
• Evaluation - Strength - real world application

  Explains cultural differences, societal norms