Social Learning Theory Study Guide
Key Figure & Background
Albert Bandura (1925-2021)
Born: December 4, 1925, Mundare, Canada
Key Contribution: Established Social Learning Theory
Revolutionary Idea: People can learn by observing others without direct reinforcement
Famous Study: Bobo Doll Experiment demonstrating observational learning and aggression
Core Concepts
Observational Learning
Definition: Learning by watching and imitating others' behavior
Key Principle: No direct reinforcement needed for learning to occur
Examples:
Child copying adult's aggressive behavior with Bobo doll
Learning positive behaviors through observation
Acquiring new skills by watching demonstrations
Modeling
Process: Observing and copying someone else's behavior
Bidirectional: Can result in both positive and negative behaviors
Mechanism: Primary way behavior is learned in social contexts
Types of Reinforcement
Internal vs. External Reinforcement
Internal Reinforcement
Occurs within the individual
Self-satisfaction, personal pride, feeling good about behavior
Example: Child feeling happy about receiving permission
External Reinforcement
Comes from outside sources (family, friends, society)
Praise, rewards, punishment from others
Example: Child asking parents for permission
, Positive vs. Negative Reinforcement
Effectiveness: Limited impact if external reinforcement doesn't match individual needs
Application: Must align with personal motivations for maximum effect
Vicarious Reinforcement
Definition: Learning from observing others being reinforced or punished
Process: Watching consequences of others' actions influences our behavior
Example: Student studies harder after seeing classmate praised for good grades
Mechanism: Indirect experience of rewards/punishments through observation
Role Models and Influence
Characteristics of Effective Role Models
Fame and Status: Public recognition increases influence
Similarity: "If they're like me" factor
Gender: Same-gender models often more influential
Abilities: Competence and skills in relevant areas
Status and Prestige: Social standing and respect
Group Effects on Behavior
Peer Pressure
Desire to fit in and belong
Copying friends' and family members' behaviors
Strong influence on individual decision-making
Solomon Asch's Conformity Studies
Individuals adjust behavior to match group norms
Conformity occurs even when group behavior seems wrong
Classic Example: Elevator experiment - facing away from door because others do
Result: People conform to avoid feeling awkward or standing out
Cultural Influences on Behavior
Individualistic Cultures (e.g., European/Western)
Characteristics:
Personal Independence: Self-reliance and individual choice
Key Figure & Background
Albert Bandura (1925-2021)
Born: December 4, 1925, Mundare, Canada
Key Contribution: Established Social Learning Theory
Revolutionary Idea: People can learn by observing others without direct reinforcement
Famous Study: Bobo Doll Experiment demonstrating observational learning and aggression
Core Concepts
Observational Learning
Definition: Learning by watching and imitating others' behavior
Key Principle: No direct reinforcement needed for learning to occur
Examples:
Child copying adult's aggressive behavior with Bobo doll
Learning positive behaviors through observation
Acquiring new skills by watching demonstrations
Modeling
Process: Observing and copying someone else's behavior
Bidirectional: Can result in both positive and negative behaviors
Mechanism: Primary way behavior is learned in social contexts
Types of Reinforcement
Internal vs. External Reinforcement
Internal Reinforcement
Occurs within the individual
Self-satisfaction, personal pride, feeling good about behavior
Example: Child feeling happy about receiving permission
External Reinforcement
Comes from outside sources (family, friends, society)
Praise, rewards, punishment from others
Example: Child asking parents for permission
, Positive vs. Negative Reinforcement
Effectiveness: Limited impact if external reinforcement doesn't match individual needs
Application: Must align with personal motivations for maximum effect
Vicarious Reinforcement
Definition: Learning from observing others being reinforced or punished
Process: Watching consequences of others' actions influences our behavior
Example: Student studies harder after seeing classmate praised for good grades
Mechanism: Indirect experience of rewards/punishments through observation
Role Models and Influence
Characteristics of Effective Role Models
Fame and Status: Public recognition increases influence
Similarity: "If they're like me" factor
Gender: Same-gender models often more influential
Abilities: Competence and skills in relevant areas
Status and Prestige: Social standing and respect
Group Effects on Behavior
Peer Pressure
Desire to fit in and belong
Copying friends' and family members' behaviors
Strong influence on individual decision-making
Solomon Asch's Conformity Studies
Individuals adjust behavior to match group norms
Conformity occurs even when group behavior seems wrong
Classic Example: Elevator experiment - facing away from door because others do
Result: People conform to avoid feeling awkward or standing out
Cultural Influences on Behavior
Individualistic Cultures (e.g., European/Western)
Characteristics:
Personal Independence: Self-reliance and individual choice
