Social Learning Theory

Definitions
1. SLT - way of explaining behaviour that includes both direct and indirect reinforcement, combining learning theory with the role of cognitive factors
2. Imitation - copying the behaviour of others
3. Identification - when observer associates themselves with role model and wants to be like a role model
4. Modelling - from the observer's perspective, modelling is imitating the behaviour of a role model.
5. Vicarious reinforcement - reinforcement which is not directly experienced but occurs through observing someone else being reinforced for a behaviour
6. Mediational processes - cognitive factors that influence learning and come between stimulus and response
Assumptions
1. Bandura agreed with behaviourists
2. But his SLT said that people learn through observation and imitation of others within a social context
3. The SLT suggested that learning occurs directly through classical and operant conditioning but also indirectly
Vicarious Reinforcement
1. Need to observe others for indirect learning to take place
2. Imitation only occurs if behaviour is seen to be rewarded rather than punished
3. Thus, the learner observes a behaviour but mostly important observes the consequence of a behaviour
Role of Mediational Process
1. Attention, Retention, Motor Reproduction, Motivation
2. 'Bridge' between traditional learning theory and cognitive approach
3. Focuses on cognitive factors are involved in learning
4. Mental factors mediate in the learning process to determine whether a new response is acquired
5. Observed behaviour may be stored and reproduced at a later time as the learning and performance behaviour do not need to work together
Identification
1. People more likely imitate the behaviour of role models
2. Process called modelling
3. Person becomes a role model if they're seen to possess similar traits to the observer
4. Role model may not be physically present in their environment but can still influence the observer, through media
Evaluation
1. Neither classical or operant consider the idea that humans learn on their own and the SLT provides more comprehensive explanation of human learning by recognising the role of mediational processes
2. Over-reliance of evidence from lab studies as they may respond to demand characteristics
3. The SLT underestimates the influence of biology as boys would be more aggressive than the girls to the doll due to testosterone
4. It explains cultural differences in behaviour as children learn from who is around them
5. Less determinist than the behaviourist approach as it emphasises reciprocal determinism that we also influence our environment which suggests there is some free will involved

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Social Learning Theory

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	Created by Jackson Maleary over 3 years ago