Lecture Notes: Social Cognitive Learning Theories

Overview

• Switch from Classical and Operant Conditioning: Focus on Social Cognitive Learning Theories.
• Behavioral Psychology: Focuses on observable events to maintain objectivity.

Social Cognitive Learning Theories

• Main Focus: Human learning through observation in a social context.
• Unlike classical and operant conditioning, it emphasizes internal thought processes.

Key Concepts

1. Observational Learning
   • Learning new behaviors by observing others.
   • Applies primarily to humans who have complex thoughts, attitudes, beliefs, and goals.
2. Focus on Human Learning
   • Emphasizes the role of observation in learning.
   • Considers mental processes during learning.

Albert Bandura

• Notable Figure: One of the most influential psychologists, formerly a professor at Stanford University.
• Vicarious Conditioning: Learning by observing the consequences of others' actions.
  • Reinforcement or punishment of others' behavior can influence an observer's future actions.

Examples

• Children often imitate parental behaviors due to observed reinforcements.
• Bandura’s experiments show children who observed aggressive behavior tend to imitate it.

Bandura’s Experiments

1. Johnny and Rocky Experiment
   • Children watched a video of a violent interaction.
   • Result: Children exposed to the video exhibited more aggressive behavior.
2. Bobo Doll Experiment
   • Children observed an adult behaving aggressively towards a Bobo doll.
   • Result: Children imitated aggressive behavior.

Adult Observation and Media Influence

• Adults also model behaviors observed in media and influential figures.
• Media Violence: Correlation between exposure to media violence and real-life aggression.
  • Criticism: Relationship is correlational, not causal.

Operant Conditioning and Behavior

• Rewards and Punishments: Influence behavior throughout life.
  • Examples: Following laws to avoid punishment or striving for rewards.

Behavior Modification Strategies

• Accentuate Positives: Reinforce strengths and small improvements.
• Find Effective Reinforcers: Identify what motivates individuals (e.g., money, attention).
• Evaluate What is Reinforced: Ensure intended behaviors are reinforced.

Modifying Personal Behavior

1. Analyze Situations: Identify triggers for unwanted behaviors.
2. Set Realistic Goals: Gradual progress to avoid failure.
3. Keep Records: Monitoring progress helps adjust plans and increase awareness.
4. Avoid Self-Punishment: Encourages perseverance towards goals.

Conclusion

• Study and Effort: Encouragement to study hard and strive for an "A" in the class.
• Instructor Support: Teacher available for questions and guidance.