Albert Bandura's Social Learning Theory

Definition

Albert Bandura's Social Learning Theory suggests that people learn from one another via observation, imitation, and modeling. The theory emphasizes the importance of observing and modeling behaviors, attitudes, and emotional reactions of others.

Theoretical Perspectives

Albert Bandura's social learning theory is rooted in behaviorism but incorporates cognitive aspects, highlighting observational learning and the role of internal processes.

Study And Research Findings

Bandura's 1961 "Bobo doll" experiment demonstrated that children imitate aggression modeled by adults, supporting his theory that behavior is learned through observation.

Related terms

Observational Learning: This is learning that occurs through observing the behavior of others. It is a key component of Bandura’s social learning theory.

Modeling: This refers to the process whereby individuals learn behaviors by watching others perform them.

Self-Efficacy: A term coined by Bandura himself which refers to an individual's belief in their capacity to execute behaviors necessary to produce specific performance attainments.