Social Learning Theory Essay

In this sample essay, we shall be looking at the topic of  “social learning theory”. Moreover, there are several principles behind this theory too. We will be looking into all of these in our discussion. Furthermore, we shall be discussing several different aspects and dividing this sample essay into several parts for the sake of simplicity. This is in order to provide the readers with a clear image of the concept to help them understand it better and clear all the doubts.

Coming back, the things that we will be discussing are essay areas mentioned: firstly we shall be looking at the definition of social learning theory and also its originator. After this, we shall be discussing the main concept behind the theory in order to understand why it is as it is. Lastly, we will be discussing the various application of the social learning theory as wrapping up the sample essay.

What is social learning theory?

As we learning is a crucial yet quite complex process in one’s life. Adding to this, the social theory of learning moves beyond and away from the scope of behavioral theories(Add link) but agrees with a part of it, as we will be discussing later on.

Coming back to the topic, social learning theory does not follow the other learning theories i.e. behavioral theories. However, Albert Bandura agrees with theories of classical conditioning as well as operant conditioning. Nevertheless, you can read more about these theories on our website where we discuss various theories of development including operant and classical conditioning.

The core concept of theory

In this section of the sample, we shall be looking at the core concepts of the social learning theory. As such there are three core concepts that sit at the center of social learning theory. Moreover, these three as namely:

• Learning through observation
• Mental state affects learning
• Learning is not always change related

Learning through observation

Albert Bandura conducted one of the most well-known psychological experiments know as the Bobo doll experiment. Adding to this, observation from this experiment sits at the heart of this concept of social learning. As the name implies, observational learning means learning through observing other people or things around us.

Bandura mentioned three models of observational learning which are as mentioned below:

• Live model: according to this model a person learning through observing other people.
• Symbolic model: as the name suggests, it involves learning from real as well as fictional characters’ behavior existing in work of literature, visual media, or other such mediums.
• Verbal instruction model: this model involves behavior description as well as an explanation.

Mental state affects learning

In his observations, Albert Bandura noticed that external environmental reinforcement is not the only factor that affects the learning and behavior of an individual. Adding to this, he also observed that reinforcement is not also due to outside factors. As one’s own mental state, as well as motivation, plays a crucial part in knowing if a person has learned behavior or not.

Learning is not always change related

More often than not, learning is associated with change. Adding to that, it is considered that after learning new things one’s behavior change. For example, after learning a certain thing you no longer require aid with it, which is your new behavior.

Application of social learning theory

Here we shall be looking at the application of social learning theory. As we know, this theory preaches observational learning. Therefore, social learning theory has numerous real-world applications. Moreover, this theory is used by researchers in order to understand the transmission of aggressive and violent behavior through observational learning.

Do you need help with your psychology homework?

If you like this sample essay, you can read more like this one on our website. This includes likes of Introduction to Psychological Research Methods, Compare and contrast between Psychology and Sociology, Depression and Social Care, the Consumer Decision-Making Process, and so on.

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