learning theory

• what is learning approach

  bandura: learn through observation and imitation- indirectly through classical and operant (imitation of behaviour rewarded)

  vicarious reinforcement=not imitated if punished
• the role of mediational processes- social learning theory

  bridge between behaviourist and cognitive approach. bandura 4 mental processes:

  - attention: we notice behaviours

  - retention: how well behaviours remembered

  -motor reproduction: ability to preform behaviour

  - motivation: will too perform behaviour
• identifacation- social learning theory

  people more likely to imitate people they identify with (role model)

  -role models have similar characteristics and high status
• social learning theory study

  Bandura's Bobo doll: watched an adult hit the doll with a hammer and abuse it, they were then more aggressive.

  then adults praised or punished or nothing for behaviour, praised most likely to be aggressive and punished least likely
• Strength of social learning theory

  -cognitive factors: cant have classical or operant learning on its own so it provides a more comprehensive explanation

  -real world applications: explains cultural differences, principles like modelling show how children learn from others and shows how cultural norms are transmitted through particular societies
• Limitations of Social Learning Theory

  -too narrow view of environmental influences

  -underestimated child's contributions to own development

  -lab studies: demand characteristics (thought they were meant to hit bobo)