Albert Bandura (Social Learning Theory)

4. Social Learning Theory (Albert Bandura)

Key Ideas:

• People learn by observing others (modeling).

• Cognition plays a role in learning (not just reinforcement).

• Self-efficacy influences behavior.

Key Concepts:

• Observational Learning: Learning by watching others.

• Vicarious Reinforcement: Learning by seeing others rewarded or punished.

• Bobo Doll Experiment: Children mimicked aggressive behavior after observing adults.

Processes of Observational Learning:

1. Attentional Process – Paying attention to the model.

2. Retention Process – Remembering the behavior.

3. Production Process – Reproducing the behavior.

4. Motivational Process – Expecting a reward.

Self-Efficacy:

• High self-efficacy: Confidence in one’s abilities, persistence.

• Low self-efficacy: Doubt, giving up easily.