Social Learning Theory

Social Learning Theory

1. Assumptions

   • We learn through observation and imitation
   • We learn directly through conditioning and indirectly through reinforcement

2. A way of explaining behaviour that includes direct and indirect reinforcement

3. Vicarious Reinforcement

   • Individual observes behaviour of others
   • Imitation occurs if behaviour is seen to be rewarded
   • Learner observes a behaviour but most importantly observes the consequences of a behaviour

4. Role of mediational processes

   • SLT is a bridge between behaviorism and cognitive
   • Mental factors identified by Bandura mediate in the learning process to determine whether a new response is acquired
   • Attention - extent to which we notice bahaviour
   • Retention - how well behaviour is remembered
   • Motor reproduction - ability to perform behaviour
   • Motivation - will to perform behaviour

5. Identification

   • When an observer associates themselves with a role model and wants to be like them
   • Done by modelling - imitation of models behaviour

6. Evaluation

   • Importance of cognitive factors in learning
   • Over-reliance on lab studies
   • Underestimates influence of biological factors

7. Bandura's Doll

   • Recorded behaviour of children who had watched an adult behave aggressively towards doll
   • Children were later observed playing with Bobo doll, behaved much more aggressively than children who observed non-aggressive adult