SLT

• What are the mediational processes?

  • attention
  • retention
  • reproduction
  • motivation
• Evaluating SLT: strengths

  • offers a positive approach to explaining behaviour as SLT suggests behaviour can be shaped by our environment
  • an evidence-based approach - research evidence e.g., Bandura demonstrates that children are able to learn behaviour through observing the behaviour of an adult
  • scientific approach with explanatory power
  • focuses on nurture, looks at how environment and role models shape our behaviours, therefore does not assign blame solely to their parents' genes
  • considers mediational processes so less deterministic than other approaches e.g., behaviourist approach
• Evaluating SLT: limitations

  • SLT is deterministic with behaviours being shaped by our environment and role models rather than empowering the individual with free will
  • SLT focuses on nurture which may assign blame to role models
  • SLT is too simplistic, ignoring the influence of hormones or genetics on behaviour
  • The validity of the research supporting SLT can be questioned e.g., the artificial environment in Bandura's research