Albert Bandura 1925 Theory n Observational Learning n

Albert Bandura 1925 -

Theory n Observational Learning n Vicarious learning and modeling n Behavior is learned intentionally n Can also be learned accidentally

Theory n Involves four mechanisms (processes): n Attention (Observing the behavior): n Involves: n Development of cognitive capacities and perceptual skills n Certain arousal level n Value of the behavior to the observer n Characteristics of the model

Theory n Involves four mechanisms (processes): n Retention (Remembering the behavior): n n Remember in images and words n Makes latent learning possible Involves cognitive organization

Theory n Involves four mechanisms (processes): n Reproduction (Doing the behavior) n n Must be able to do the behavior (No physical response can occur beyond our physical capability) Can be enhanced by imagination and practice

Theory n Involves four mechanisms (processes): n Motivation (Wanting to do the behavior) n n Unless motivated to do it, behavior will not be imitated Can include n n n Past reinforcements or punishments Promised reinforcements or punishments Vicarious reinforcements or punishments

Theory n Modeling n Acquiring behavior that we have never performed by observing the behavior of someone else

Theory n Factors that influence modeling: n Characteristics of the model: n Most influential if: n n Similar to us - Same sex Respected (status and prestige) - Same age Considered powerful - Simple behaviors Attractive - Hostile or aggressive (children)

Theory n Factors that influence modeling: n Characteristics of the observer: n n Person with low self esteem and confidence more likely to imitate than those with high self esteem and confidence Person who has been reinforced for behavior is more influenced than those who are not.

Theory n Factors that influence modeling: n The reward consequences associated with the behaviors n n Rewards must be meaningful Whether reinforced or punished

Theory n Two other important contributors to personality n n Self-reinforcement (self-regulation) Self-efficacy

Theory n Self-reinforcement (self-regulation) n Involves: n Internal standards of performance (self observation) n Usually learned from models n Reference points against which to evaluate behavior (judgmental processes) n Self reactions (rewards and punishment) n As important as external reinforcement

Theory n Self-efficacy n n Our adequacy, efficiency, and competence in coping with life n Perceived self-efficacy ---> our beliefs in the above Also involves our perception of control (locus of control)

Theory n Self-efficacy based on: n n Performance attainment: n History of success or failure n Most influential Vicarious experiences n Seeing those similar in ability succeed or fail

Theory n Self-efficacy based on: n n Verbal persuasion n Genuine encouragement or discouragement from self or others Physiological and emotional arousal n Higher the response – the less self-efficacy n Lower the response – the higher the self-efficacy

Theory n Self-efficacy can be enhanced by: n Exposing people to success experiences by arranging reachable goals n Exposing people to appropriate models who perform successfully

Theory n Self-efficacy can be enhanced by: n Providing positive verbal persuasion n Strengthening physiological arousal through: n proper diet n stress reduction n exercise programs

Reciprocal Determinism Environment (Situation variables) Personal Variables (Psychological Processes) Behavior

Theory n Self-Exonerating Mechanisms n Defense mechanisms that allow individuals to act contrary to their moral principles

Theory n Self-Exonerating Mechanisms n n Moral Justification n Behavior becomes a means of higher purpose n “I stole so I could provide for my family” Euphemistic Labeling n Calling something other than what it really is n We “waste” or “terminate” people rather than “kill” them.

Theory n Self-Exonerating Mechanisms n n Advantageous Comparison n Compare to a more heinous or reprehensible act n “What I did was not as bad as …” Displacement of Responsibility n Responsibility rests with recognized authority n “I was just following orders”

Theory n Self-Exonerating Mechanisms n n Diffusion of Responsibility n Group decision Disregard or distortion of consequences n Remove self from ill effects of actions n “I just let the bombs go and they disappeared in the clouds”

Theory n Self-Exonerating Mechanisms n n Dehumanization n If looked at as subhuman, can treat inhumanly n “Why not take their land, they are just savages w/o souls” Attribution of blame n Victim caused the behavior n “If they hadn’t…then I wouldn’t have”