Social Learning Theory – Bandura
Introduction:
Also called observational learning
Not based on direct experience
Learn by observing behaviour modelled and imitating – vicarious
learning
Banduras research supports
AO1
Bandura, Ross & Ross:
Aim: Show children can learn aggressive behaviour through imitation of model
(adult).
Procedure: 72 children. 3 groups:
Aggressive: Adult aggressive towards bobo doll.
Non-aggressive: Adult played nicely with toys, ignored doll.
Control: No model.
After:
1) Taken into room with toys- not allowed to play (mild arousal – annoyance).
2) Allowed to play in room with toys & bobo doll.
Results: Children in aggressive condition more likely to act aggressive towards
bobo doll than other groups.
Conclude: Aggression can be learnt through imitation. Has an implication for
media violence.
Banduras’s second study:
Same layout but consequences for aggression shown. 1 rewarded, 1
punished, 1 no consequence.
Introduction:
Also called observational learning
Not based on direct experience
Learn by observing behaviour modelled and imitating – vicarious
learning
Banduras research supports
AO1
Bandura, Ross & Ross:
Aim: Show children can learn aggressive behaviour through imitation of model
(adult).
Procedure: 72 children. 3 groups:
Aggressive: Adult aggressive towards bobo doll.
Non-aggressive: Adult played nicely with toys, ignored doll.
Control: No model.
After:
1) Taken into room with toys- not allowed to play (mild arousal – annoyance).
2) Allowed to play in room with toys & bobo doll.
Results: Children in aggressive condition more likely to act aggressive towards
bobo doll than other groups.
Conclude: Aggression can be learnt through imitation. Has an implication for
media violence.
Banduras’s second study:
Same layout but consequences for aggression shown. 1 rewarded, 1
punished, 1 no consequence.
