Social Learning Theory

Question 1

What is Social Learning Theory?

Answer 1

The theory that criminal behaviour is learnt through observation and imitation of others.

Question 2

Is it based on nature or nurture?

Answer 2

Nurture

Question 3

Observation

Answer 3

People paying attention to and remembering behaviours.

Question 4

Imitation

Answer 4

People recalling behaviours and reproducing them with their own actions.

Question 5

Identification

Answer 5

The process where a person aligns themselves with another.

Question 6

Role Model

Answer 6

A person held in esteem by another.

Question 7

Direct Reinforcement

Answer 7

When a behaviour is strengthened due to positive outcomes for the individual.

Question 8

Vicarious Reinforcement

Answer 8

When a behaviour is strengthened by an individual observing the same behaviour being rewarded in another.

Question 9

Internalisation

Answer 9

A behaviour becomes an integral part of an individual’s personality due to continuous reinforcement.

Question 10

What are some criticisms of Social Learning Theory?

Answer 10

Ignores role of nature, doesn’t explain where behaviour comes from in the first place.