Social learning theory of gender development

Question 1

Social learning theory

Answer 1

Gender behaviours learned in a social context through observing and imitating significant others

Question 2

Direct reinforcement role in gender development

Answer 2

Children repeat gender behaviours that are rewarded and avoid those that are punished = differential reinforcement

Question 3

Indirect (vicarious) reinforcement role in gender development

Answer 3

Children observe consequences of gender behaviour, imitate those with favourable outcome, avoid those that are punished

Question 4

Identification role in gender development

Answer 4

The child attaches to role models who display gender appropriate behaviour

Question 5

Modelling role in gender development

Answer 5

• Precise demonstration of a behaviour that may be imitated by an observer
• Imitates/models behaviour, especially same-sex models

Question 6

Mediational processes

Answer 6

Attention
Retention
Motor reproduction
Motivation

Question 7

Social learning theory of gender development Evaluation points- Research support

Answer 7

STRENGTH

Differential reinforcement- babies dressed as boys or girls given gender-related toys
(Smith and Lloyd)

Question 8

Social learning theory of gender development Evaluation points- Research support counterpoint

Answer 8

LIMITATION

Differential reinforcement not always the cause, adults reinforce to pre-existing differences in boys and girls (e.g. boys being innately more active)

Question 9

Social learning theory of gender development Evaluation points- Cultural changes

Answer 9

STRENGTH

Androgyny more common now in many cultures, can be explained by less ‘punishment’ and more reinforcement (SLT not biology)

Question 10

Social learning theory of gender development Evaluation points- No developmental sequence

Answer 10

LIMITATION

Not reflected in SLT where learning is the same at any age, conflicts with e.g. Kohlberge