SLT

Question 1

what is the definition of SLT?

Answer 1

learning occurs through observation and imitation of others in a social context

Question 2

what gap does SLT bridge?

Answer 2

behaviourism (external stimuli) and the Cognitive Approach(internal mental processes

Question 3

what is a key concept of SLT?

Answer 3

Humans are active processors of information, not passive responders.

Question 4

what is vicarious reinforcement?

Answer 4

Learning by observing the consequences of others’ actions. Imitation occurs if the model is rewarded

Question 5

what are role models and how do people identify with them?

Answer 5

Individuals are more likely to imitate those they identify with (e.g., similar age/gender, high status, or attractive qualities).


Question 6

what is the meditational process in SLT?

Answer 6

Attention: Noticing the behaviour.

Retention: Remembering the behaviour.

Motor Reproduction: The physical ability to perform the behaviour.

Motivation: The will to perform it (based on rewards vs. punishments).


Question 7

what is the method for Bandura’s study?

Answer 7

Children observed adults behaving aggressively or non-aggressively toward an inflatable doll

Question 8

what did bandura find in his study?

Answer 8

Children who saw aggressive models imitated the specific acts and language. Imitation was higher if the model was the same sex as the child

Question 9

what did bandura conclude?

Answer 9

Behaviour can be learned through observation alone, without direct reinforcement

Question 10

what is a strength of SLT?

Answer 10

Recognizes Cognitive Factors ~ Unlike strict behaviourism, SLT accounts for mediational processes. This provides a more realistic explanation of complex human behaviours, such as gender roles

Practical Applications ~ Explains the transmission of cultural norms.
informed media regulations (e.g., age ratings on films/games) by demonstrating how screen violence can influence real-world aggression

Methodological Rigour ~ Relies on controlled lab experiments, allowing for clear cause-and-effect relationships to be established

Question 11

what is a weakness of SLT?

Answer 11

Underestimates Biology ~ SLT ignores the “Nature” side of the debate. In the Bobo Doll study, boys were more aggressive than girls regardless of the model, likely due to hormonal differences (testosterone).

Issues with Lab Evidence ~ Low Ecological Validity: Lab settings are artificial.
- Demand Characteristics ~ Children may have hit the doll because they thought it was expected of them (the doll is designed to be hit), rather than genuine learned aggression.

Question 12

what is the conclusion of SLT?

Answer 12

SLT is a comprehensive framework that successfully integrates the role of the environment and the mind.

While it lacks a biological perspective, it remains essential for understanding social development and the power of role models in society.