Section 9: Techniques Based on Social Learning Approaches

Founder of Social Learning Theory

Albert Bandura

Key Idea of Social Learning Theory

People learn by observing and imitating others (vicarious learning).

Focus of Social Learning Theory

Learning occurs through observation, imitation, and modeling — not just reinforcement or punishment.

Social Learning Techniques

Modeling, Behavioral Rehearsal, Role Play

Definition of Modeling

Demonstrating skills or behaviors for clients to imitate.

Other Names for Modeling

Imitation, Identification, Observational Learning, Vicarious Learning

Types of Modeling

Overt (live), Symbolic (video/audio), Covert (imagined), Self-as-model

Responses from Modeling

Observational learning, Inhibitory/disinhibitory effects, Response facilitation effects

4 Subprocesses of Modeling

Attention, Retention, Reproduction, Motivation

How to Implement Modeling

Select behavior → Give rationale → Break down steps → Demonstrate → Reinforce → Let client practice → Assign homework

When Modeling Is Most Effective

When the client relates to the model and sees them as similar.

Uses of Modeling

Social skills, developmental disabilities, aggression, self-acceptance, phobias, self-control, substance abuse, self-confidence.

Definition of Behavioral Rehearsal

Practicing social behaviors with feedback from counselor or peers.

Purpose of Behavioral Rehearsal

Reduce anxiety, improve performance, build confidence, and gain feedback.

How to Implement Behavioral Rehearsal

Practice daily life events → Build motivation → Give feedback → Use positive reinforcement → Shape behaviors gradually

Six Rules of Behavioral Rehearsal

• Express emotions verbally

• Use body language

• Disagree when necessary

• Use “I” statements

• Accept praise

• Improvise and stay present

Variations of Behavioral Rehearsal

In vivo (real-life), technology-based practice

Usefulness of Behavioral Rehearsal

Helps with anger, anxiety, phobias, panic, depression, social interactions.

Cautions for Behavioral Rehearsal

Not suitable for clients who avoid responsibility, fear consequences, resist practice, or face crises.

Definition of Role Play

Practicing new behaviors or perspectives in mock situations with feedback.

Benefits of Role Play

Safe environment, builds insight, teaches empathy, encourages behavior change.

Who Benefits from Role Play

Clients needing self-understanding or behavior change.

Four Elements of Role Play

Encounter, Stage, Soliloquy, Doubling

Three Phases of Role Play

Warm-up → Action → Sharing/Analysis

Seven Steps of Role Play

Warm-up, Scene setting, Role selection, Enactment, Feedback, Reenactment, Follow-up

Alternative Five-Step Role Play Process

Specify behavior → Determine context → Start small → Build risk → Apply to real life

Role Play Variations

Mirror technique, Empty chair (Gestalt), Children’s costume play

Usefulness of Role Play

REBT, CBT, Gestalt, Social learning, individual/group/family work, empathy training, family dynamics.

Multicultural Implications of Role Play

Action-based methods fit Latin, Arab, and Asian cultures; some may avoid emotional expression.