Social learning theory of gender

Direct reinforcement:

Children are more likely to be praised for stereotypically gender-appropriate behaviour (differential reinforcement).

Vicarious reinforcement:

If the consequences of another person’s behaviour are favourable (modelling), that behaviour is more likely to be developed. If the consequences are unfavourable, the behaviour is less likely to be developed.

Identification:

The child copies behaviour from role models through mediational processes (ARRM).

Opposing findings

Psychodynamic approach, little Hans.

Explains cultural changes

Opinions on feminine, masculine and androgynous traits have changed frequently over time and across different cultures, SLT explains this.

Research support

Smith and Lloyd (1978) babies aged 4-6 months who (irrespective of their actual sex) were dressed half the time in boys clothes and the other half in girls. Adults gave the girl-clothed babies dolls and the boy-clothed babies hammer-shaped rattles.