Explaining how SLT explains aggressive/criminal behaviour

Explaining how SLT explains aggressive/criminal behaviour

1. SLT explain criminal behaviour in terms of modelling behaviour seen through watching others or via the media

2. Criminal behaviour is learnt through attention, retention, motivation and re-production

   • A person needs to observe criminal behaviour directly/indirectly in real life or via media so it can be remembered and reproduced
   • Motivation
     • Bandura outlined 3 important factors which determine whether we decide to copy
       • Vicarious Learning
         • If behaviour is punished it is less likely to be repeated
           • If rewarded, more likely to be repeated
         • How individuals learn by watching other being rewarded/punished
           • Watching a successful criminal is more likely to motivate than observing an unsuccessful one
       • External Motivation
         • Once a criminal act has been acquired through social learning, operant conditioning applys.
           • If behaviour is rewarded it is more likely to be repeated
       • Self Reinforcement
         • A behaviour is more motivating is an internal need is satisfied

3. Role Models

   • Criminal behaviour has to have been observed in role models already engaging in criminal activity
     • Family members
     • Peers
     • Social Enviroment
   • We are more likely to copy individuals with social status