Observational learning lets people and other animals learn by watching what others do. This lesson introduces modeling, distinguishes observational learning from simple imitation, and explains the kinds of models we may learn from.
Observational learning is learning by watching others and then adapting what we have observed. When someone performs a behavior that another person observes, the person being observed is a model. The observer may later reproduce the model’s actions; this is often called modeling.
All flashcards
What is observational learning?
Learning by watching another individual’s behavior and its consequences.
What is a model in observational learning?
An individual whose behavior is observed and may be learned by an observer.
How does modeling relate to observational learning?
Modeling is reproducing behavior that has been observed; learning can occur without immediate imitation.
What are Bandura’s three types of models?
Live models demonstrate in person, verbal instructional models explain behavior, and symbolic models present behavior through media.
What does social learning theory include beyond observable behavior?
Cognitive processes such as attention, memory, expectations, and decisions.
Quiz questions
In Bandura’s Bobo doll study, how did children’s imitation differ when the adult model was punished?Answer: They were less likely to perform the modeled aggressive actions.
A coach explains how to kick a ball but does not demonstrate the action. What type of model is the coach?Answer: A verbal instructional model
What is prosocial behavior?Answer: Behavior intended to benefit others or support positive social interaction.
What can be concluded from a correlation between violent media exposure and aggression?Answer: The association alone does not establish that media exposure caused aggression.
What does Bandura’s social learning theory recognize that strict behaviorism does not fully explain?Answer: Internal processes can contribute to learning without direct external reinforcement.
Based on Psychology 2e by Rose M. Spielman, William J. Jenkins, Marilyn D. Lovett (OpenStax), licensed CC BY 4.0. Adapted into a summary, flashcards and quizzes.