Definition
Social Learning Theory (SLT)
Introduced by Albert Bandura, the Social Learning Theory (SLT) explains how individuals learn behaviors and attitudes by observing others. It focuses on the role of modeling and reinforcement in shaping behavior, emphasizing that people can learn without direct experience.
Definition
Social Cognitive Theory (SCT)
Social Cognitive Theory (SCT) builds on Social Learning Theory by emphasizing the role of cognitive processes in shaping behavior. It explains that learning is not just a reaction to the environment but involves active thinking.
Observational Learning:
- Individuals learn by watching others, including their actions and the consequences of those actions. This is known as vicarious reinforcement.
- For example, children might imitate a parent’s behavior after observing its outcomes.
Triadic Reciprocal Determinism:
- SCT emphasizes the bidirectional interaction between:
- Personal factors (e.g., cognitive, emotional, physical attributes)
- Behavior (e.g., actions and decisions)
- Environment (e.g., social and physical surroundings).
- These factors continuously influence one another, shaping learning and behavior.
Human Agency:
- SCT posits that individuals are active participants in shaping their own behavior through intentionality, self-regulation, and self-reflection:
- Intentionality: Setting and pursuing specific goals.
- Forethought: Anticipating the outcomes of actions.
- Self-reactiveness: Regulating and motivating behavior.
- Self-reflectiveness: Evaluating and adjusting actions based on outcomes.
Self-Efficacy:
- The belief in one’s ability to successfully perform a behavior.
- Higher self-efficacy increases the likelihood of imitating behaviors, persisting in challenges, and achieving goals.
Identification:
- Learning is more effective when the observer identifies with the model, perceiving them as similar in traits, values, or experiences.
Learning can occur indirectly through observing others, not just through direct experience.
