term1 Definition1term2 Definition2term3 Definition3
Please sign in to your Google account to access your documents:
Social learning theory
The SLT suggests we learn the specifics of aggressive behavior through a process of Attention, Retention, Reproduction and Motivation. This process is also known as vicarious reinforcement.
SLT Supporting Study - Bandura et al. (Bobo dolls)
Bandura conducted a study into whether children imitate the aggression of adult models. They found that children exposed to aggressive models attacking a bobo doll reproduced much of the physical and verbal aggression shown by the model when placed in a room with the same doll. Whereas children not exposed to aggressive models exhibited virtually no aggression towards the doll at all. It was also noted that boys reproduced more physical aggression towards the doll than girls but they did not differ in their imitation of verbal aggression. Furthermore children were more likely to imitate same sex models.
Evaluation of SLT
The SLT can be praised for its ability to explain cultural differences in aggressive behaviour. The Culture of Violence theory proposes that some cultures value and so model aggressive behaviour, whereas others value and model non aggressive behaviour. The parents of Kung San children do not use physical punishment and aggressive behaviour is devalued. Thus aggression is rare as there is little or no opportunity for the children to learn such behaviour. However much of the research conducted focuses upon children leading researchers to question whether the SLT can also explain adult behaviour.
Need help typing ? See our FAQ (opens in new window)
Please sign in to create this set. We'll bring you back here when you are done.
Discard Changes Sign in
Please sign in to add to folders.
Sign in
Don't have an account? Sign Up »
You have created 2 folders. Please upgrade to Cram Premium to create hundreds of folders!