Key Concept 3: Social Learning Theory (SLT)

Question 1

What is Social learning theory (SLT)?

Answer 1

Learning often indirect reinforcement, this means we learn by observing and imitating others.

Question 2

Vicarious reinforcement

Answer 2

When observing a behaviour being rewarded, we are more likely to imitate that behaviour.

Question 3

Observation

Answer 3

When the observer actively focuses their attention on their model’s (people we observe and imitate) behaviour and watches how it is performed.

Question 4

Imitation

Answer 4

When the observer may imitate the model - more likely if the observer identifies with the model. For example, a young boy is more likely to imitate the behaviours of older males than older females.

This happens for two main reasons:

1. The observer perceives the model to be similiar to themselves.
2. They value/admire the model.