Social Learning Theory:

(SLT: We learn behaviours through observing 'models' with whom we identify.)

Aggressive behaviour = learnt through observation, E.G: form it takes, who it can be directed towards and when it is or isn't appropriate to use.

Children unlikely to imitate behaviour unless motivated.
Motivation can occur when behaviour = vicariously reinforced - children observe aggressive behaviour from model succeeding.

Mental Representation:
Bandura: Children must form mental representations of themselves performing the behaviour & possible outcome if they performed behaviour.
If opportunity arises, children will perform behaviour - if expect positive consequences.

Production of Behaviour:

If rewarded, children likely to repeat aggressive behaviour = direct reinforcement.
Value of aggressive behaviour increases because it becomes associated with rewards.
Children will also have higher sense of confidence in using behavior to get what they want.

	Created by ggarr13088 almost 10 years ago

Note on Social Psychological Explanations of Aggression , created by ggarr13088 on 03/01/2015.