7.2 Bandura's Social Cognitive Theory

Bandura's Social Cognitive Theory highlights how we learn by watching others. It's like picking up new skills from your cool friends or role models, but with a scientific twist. This theory explains why we copy behaviors and how our environment shapes us.

The theory dives into observational learning, self-regulation, and reciprocal determinism. These concepts show how our thoughts, actions, and surroundings all work together to influence how we learn and grow. It's a holistic view of human behavior and development.

Observational Learning

Social Cognitive Theory and Observational Learning

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• Social cognitive theory emphasizes the importance of observing and modeling behaviors, attitudes, and emotional reactions of others
• Observational learning, a key component of social cognitive theory, occurs when an individual's learning is influenced by watching others and observing their behavior
• Modeling involves an individual demonstrating a behavior that can be imitated by others (a child imitating a parent tying their shoes)
• Vicarious reinforcement happens when an individual observes another person being rewarded or punished for a behavior, influencing the likelihood of the observer engaging in that behavior (seeing a classmate praised for raising their hand before speaking)

Stages of Observational Learning

• Attention: The individual must pay attention to the model's behavior and its consequences (focusing on a teacher's demonstration of a math problem)
• Retention: The observer must remember the behavior they observed, often through mental rehearsal or visualization (practicing the steps of a dance routine in their mind)
• Reproduction: The individual must have the ability to reproduce the observed behavior, which may require practice and feedback (attempting to replicate a gymnastic move seen on television)
• Motivation: The observer must have a reason to perform the behavior, such as external rewards, vicarious reinforcement, or intrinsic motivation (a student studying hard to achieve good grades like their role model)

Reciprocal Determinism

Triadic Reciprocal Causation

• Reciprocal determinism is a central concept in social cognitive theory that explains human functioning as a result of the interaction between personal factors, behavior, and the environment
• Triadic reciprocal causation refers to the dynamic and reciprocal interaction of these three factors (personal, behavioral, and environmental) that influence an individual's learning and behavior
• Personal factors include an individual's knowledge, expectations, attitudes, and beliefs (self-efficacy beliefs influencing academic performance)
• Behavioral factors involve the individual's skills, self-efficacy, and actions (a student's study habits impacting their grades)
• Environmental factors consist of social norms, access to resources, and physical surroundings (a supportive family environment promoting academic success)

Self-Regulation

The Process of Self-Regulation

• Self-regulation is the ability to control one's thoughts, emotions, and behaviors to achieve a desired goal or outcome
• It involves setting standards for behavior, monitoring one's progress towards those standards, and adjusting behavior as needed (a student setting a study schedule and tracking their progress)
• Self-regulation includes the ability to delay gratification, resist temptations, and persist in the face of challenges (choosing to study for an exam instead of attending a party)
• Effective self-regulation strategies include goal-setting, self-monitoring, self-evaluation, and self-reinforcement (rewarding oneself for meeting a study goal)
• The development of self-regulation skills is influenced by modeling, instruction, and feedback from others, as well as an individual's own experiences and reflections (a teacher providing guidance on effective study strategies)