Psychology Chapter 3: Observational Learning

Questions and Answers

What is observational (vicarious) learning?

Change in behavior due to personal experiences

Change in behavior due to direct reinforcement

Change in behavior due to the experience of observing a model (correct)

Change in behavior due to social interaction

What does vicarious reinforcement refer to?

The reinforcement that occurs as a result of watching a model get reinforced for a specific behavior.

What is vicarious punishment?

Occurs when the observer sees the model's behavior being punished and then refrains from the behavior.

What is generalized imitation?

The tendency to imitate modeled behavior even though the imitative behavior is not reinforced. Signup and view all the answers

What are attentional processes in Bandura's theory?

Activities by an observer that aid in the observation of relevant aspects of a model's behavior and its consequences. Signup and view all the answers

What are retentional processes?

Activities by an observer that aid recall of the modeled behavior. Signup and view all the answers

What are motor reproductive processes?

The skills required to perform modeled behavior. Signup and view all the answers

What are motivational processes in vicarious learning?

The expectation that a modeled behavior will be reinforced. Signup and view all the answers

What does Miller-Dollard reinforcement theory suggest?

Observational learning is a form of operant learning, and changes in behavior are due to the consequences of the observer's behavior. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Observational Learning

Observational (vicarious) learning involves changing behavior by observing a model, highlighting the importance of social context in learning processes.

Vicarious Reinforcement

Vicarious reinforcement occurs when an observer witnesses a model receiving rewards for specific behaviors, leading the observer to potentially replicate those behaviors.

Vicarious Punishment

Vicarious punishment happens when an observer sees a model being punished for a behavior, which discourages the observer from engaging in that same behavior.

Generalized Imitation

Generalized imitation refers to the tendency to imitate behaviors observed in models, regardless of whether those behaviors are reinforced or not.

Attentional Processes

In Bandura's theory, attentional processes involve the observer actively focusing on critical aspects of the model's behavior and its outcomes, which is essential for effective learning.

Retentional Processes

Retentional processes include methods that help observers recall modeled behaviors, such as mental notes or reminders about specific techniques (like a cooking student's observation of batter folding).

Motor Reproductive Processes

These processes involve developing the physical skills necessary to replicate modeled behavior, emphasizing the role of practice in learning through observation.

Motivational Processes

Motivational processes entail the observer's belief that performing a modeled behavior will lead to reinforcement, influencing their likelihood of engaging in that behavior.

Miller-Dollard Reinforcement Theory

According to Miller and Dollard, observational learning functions as a type of operant learning, with changes in behavior arising from the consequences faced by the observer rather than the model.

Description

Explore the principles of observational learning as outlined in psychology. This quiz covers key concepts such as vicarious reinforcement, punishment, and the processes involved in learning through observation. Test your understanding of how social context influences behavior change.