Social Learning Theory (OCR A-Level Psychology): Revision Notes
📚 Revision Notes
5.1.4 Social Learning Theory
Assumptions
- Agrees with the behaviourist learning theories but argues that mediating processes occur between stimuli and responses.
- Cognitive processes are essential for learning to take place.
SLT is often described as the 'bridge' between behaviourism and the cognitive approach.
Stages of the social learning theory (mediating processes)
Attention: The individual will observe a model's behaviour.
Retention: Individuals must remember the behaviour that they have observed.
Reproduction: The individual must have the ability to replicate the observed behaviour.
Motivation: Individuals will consider the rewards and punishments that follow a behaviour.
infoNote
Imitation is more likely to occur if the individual sees the model being positively reinforced (vicarious reinforcement).
infoNote
Imitation is more likely to occur if the individual identifies with the model. E.g. similar age, gender, social status.