social learning theory

• social learning theory

  • Bandura argues we learn through observation and imitation so therefore also focuses on mental processes involved in learning as well as behaviours
  • imitation is more likely to occur if someone observes the role model being positively reinforced (vicarious reinforcement)
  • imitation is more likely to occur if we identify with he model e.g. similar age, gender or social status
• SLT stages

  • Attention: must pay attention to the behaviour and consequences
  • Retention: must store the observed behaviour in LTM.
  • Reproduction: must be able to have the ability to reproduce the observed behaviour
  • Motivation: must expect to receive the same positive reinforcements for imitating the observed behaviour
• SLT:Bobo doll experiment (Bandura)

  • 36 boys and 36 girls, all aged 4
  • lab experiment: kids in first 2 conditions water model hit and shout at the doll using a hammer
  • 8 experimental groups (same-sex model or aggressive model shown)
  • PROCEDURE- each child was placed in a room and told not to play with any toys and then in a room with aggressive toys (guns and a mallet). behaviour was observed for 20 minutes
  • RESULTS- children who observed aggressive model acted more aggressively. boys were more physically aggressive than girls. They were more likely to imitator same-sex models
• SLT evaluation

  S- experimental support from Bobo doll that children are more likely to imitate models who are rewarded for behaviour (vicarious reinforcement)

  O-doesn't take into account biological factors (neurotransmitter levels)