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Biology
Chemistry
AP Chemistry
English
AP English Literature
Psychology
Dec 1, 2025
526
2 pages
Ffion @ffion_lm
Social learning theory, developed by Bandura in 1977, revolutionised how psychologists understand human behaviour by suggesting we learn... Show more
Ever wondered why you might pick up your mate's accent or copy a celebrity's style? Social learning theory explains exactly this phenomenon. Unlike traditional behaviourist theories that focus only on direct rewards and punishments, Bandura proposed we learn through observation and vicarious reinforcement - basically watching what happens to others when they behave in certain ways.
The theory considers both environmental factors (what's happening around us) and cognitive factors (our thoughts and mental processes). This makes it less deterministic than pure behaviourism because it suggests we have some free will in choosing which behaviours to copy.
Bandura's famous Bobo doll study from 1961 provides the main evidence. He divided 72 children into three groups one watched an adult being aggressive to an inflatable doll, another saw non-aggressive play, and a control group saw nothing. The results were striking - children who witnessed aggression were much more likely to behave aggressively themselves.
For behaviour to be copied, Bandura identified four key processes attention (noticing the behaviour), retention (remembering it), motor reproduction (being physically able to copy it), and motivation (wanting to do it). We're more likely to imitate role models who share our characteristics or possess desirable traits like fame or attractiveness.
Quick Tip Think about influencers on social media - social learning theory explains why they're so effective at changing behaviour and trends!
Social learning theory's biggest strength is recognising that cognitive factors matter in learning. Traditional conditioning theories couldn't fully explain human behaviour because they ignored our ability to think, store information, and make judgements about when certain actions are appropriate.
However, the theory has significant limitations. It largely ignores biological factors that influence behaviour. For instance, boys often show more aggressive behaviour than girls, which could be explained by testosterone differences rather than just social learning. This suggests Bandura may have underestimated biological influences.
Ethical concerns also limit research in this area. Exposing children to aggressive behaviour (knowing they might copy it) raises serious questions about protecting participants from harm. Modern ethics committees wouldn't approve studies like the original Bobo doll experiment.
The theory's ecological validity is questionable too. Most supporting evidence comes from controlled lab experiments where children were aggressive towards a doll that obviously couldn't feel pain. Their behaviour might be completely different towards real people in real-world situations.
Despite these limitations, social learning theory has brilliant practical applications. It explains media influence on behaviour, cultural differences in aggression, and why some communities (like the Amish) remain non-violent - if aggressive behaviour isn't displayed, it can't be imitated.
Exam Tip Remember to balance strengths and limitations in evaluation questions - social learning theory is useful but not complete on its own!
Our AI companion is specifically built for the needs of students. Based on the millions of content pieces we have on the platform we can provide truly meaningful and relevant answers to students. But its not only about answers, the companion is even more about guiding students through their daily learning challenges, with personalised study plans, quizzes or content pieces in the chat and 100% personalisation based on the students skills and developments.
You can download the app in the Google Play Store and in the Apple App Store.
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
9
Smart Tools NEW
Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines
Explore the key concepts of Social Learning Theory, including Bandura's principles of modeling, observational learning, and the role of mediational processes. This summary highlights the importance of cognitive factors, cultural influences, and critiques of traditional behaviorist approaches. Ideal for psychology students studying the learning approach.
PsychologyStudy notes covering AP Psych curriculum
AP PsychologyExplore the key concepts of Bandura's Social Learning Theory, including observational learning, modeling, and the Bobo doll study. This summary highlights the strengths and criticisms of the theory, emphasizing the role of cognitive factors and vicarious reinforcement in learning behaviors. Ideal for students studying psychology and behavioral theories.
PsychologyExplore the key psychological approaches including behaviorism, cognitive psychology, and psychodynamic theories. This summary covers foundational concepts such as conditioned responses, operant conditioning, and Freud's theories, providing a comprehensive evaluation of each approach's contributions and limitations. Ideal for students seeking to understand the diverse methodologies in psychology.
PsychologyExplore the strengths and weaknesses of the behavioral approach in psychology, including its environmental determinism, use of animal research, scientific methods, and real-life applications in behavior therapy. This summary highlights key concepts such as operant conditioning and the implications for the justice system and treatment of phobias.
PsychologyExplore the key concepts of attachment through classical and operant conditioning. This summary covers Dollard and Miller's 'cupboard love' theory, the role of primary and secondary drives, and evaluates the strengths and weaknesses of learning theory in explaining attachment. Ideal for psychology students studying attachment theory.
PsychologyApp Store
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
Ffion
@ffion_lm
Social learning theory, developed by Bandura in 1977, revolutionised how psychologists understand human behaviour by suggesting we learn not just through direct experience, but by watching and copying others. This theory bridges the gap between behaviourist approaches and cognitive psychology,... Show more
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Ever wondered why you might pick up your mate's accent or copy a celebrity's style? Social learning theory explains exactly this phenomenon. Unlike traditional behaviourist theories that focus only on direct rewards and punishments, Bandura proposed we learn through observation and vicarious reinforcement - basically watching what happens to others when they behave in certain ways.
The theory considers both environmental factors (what's happening around us) and cognitive factors (our thoughts and mental processes). This makes it less deterministic than pure behaviourism because it suggests we have some free will in choosing which behaviours to copy.
Bandura's famous Bobo doll study from 1961 provides the main evidence. He divided 72 children into three groups: one watched an adult being aggressive to an inflatable doll, another saw non-aggressive play, and a control group saw nothing. The results were striking - children who witnessed aggression were much more likely to behave aggressively themselves.
For behaviour to be copied, Bandura identified four key processes: attention (noticing the behaviour), retention (remembering it), motor reproduction (being physically able to copy it), and motivation (wanting to do it). We're more likely to imitate role models who share our characteristics or possess desirable traits like fame or attractiveness.
Quick Tip: Think about influencers on social media - social learning theory explains why they're so effective at changing behaviour and trends!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Social learning theory's biggest strength is recognising that cognitive factors matter in learning. Traditional conditioning theories couldn't fully explain human behaviour because they ignored our ability to think, store information, and make judgements about when certain actions are appropriate.
However, the theory has significant limitations. It largely ignores biological factors that influence behaviour. For instance, boys often show more aggressive behaviour than girls, which could be explained by testosterone differences rather than just social learning. This suggests Bandura may have underestimated biological influences.
Ethical concerns also limit research in this area. Exposing children to aggressive behaviour (knowing they might copy it) raises serious questions about protecting participants from harm. Modern ethics committees wouldn't approve studies like the original Bobo doll experiment.
The theory's ecological validity is questionable too. Most supporting evidence comes from controlled lab experiments where children were aggressive towards a doll that obviously couldn't feel pain. Their behaviour might be completely different towards real people in real-world situations.
Despite these limitations, social learning theory has brilliant practical applications. It explains media influence on behaviour, cultural differences in aggression, and why some communities (like the Amish) remain non-violent - if aggressive behaviour isn't displayed, it can't be imitated.
Exam Tip: Remember to balance strengths and limitations in evaluation questions - social learning theory is useful but not complete on its own!
Our AI companion is specifically built for the needs of students. Based on the millions of content pieces we have on the platform we can provide truly meaningful and relevant answers to students. But its not only about answers, the companion is even more about guiding students through their daily learning challenges, with personalised study plans, quizzes or content pieces in the chat and 100% personalisation based on the students skills and developments.
You can download the app in the Google Play Store and in the Apple App Store.
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
9
Smart Tools NEW
Transform this note into: ✓ 50+ Practice Questions ✓ Interactive Flashcards ✓ Full Mock Exam ✓ Essay Outlines
Explore the key concepts of Social Learning Theory, including Bandura's principles of modeling, observational learning, and the role of mediational processes. This summary highlights the importance of cognitive factors, cultural influences, and critiques of traditional behaviorist approaches. Ideal for psychology students studying the learning approach.
PsychologyStudy notes covering AP Psych curriculum
AP PsychologyExplore the key concepts of Bandura's Social Learning Theory, including observational learning, modeling, and the Bobo doll study. This summary highlights the strengths and criticisms of the theory, emphasizing the role of cognitive factors and vicarious reinforcement in learning behaviors. Ideal for students studying psychology and behavioral theories.
PsychologyExplore the key psychological approaches including behaviorism, cognitive psychology, and psychodynamic theories. This summary covers foundational concepts such as conditioned responses, operant conditioning, and Freud's theories, providing a comprehensive evaluation of each approach's contributions and limitations. Ideal for students seeking to understand the diverse methodologies in psychology.
PsychologyExplore the strengths and weaknesses of the behavioral approach in psychology, including its environmental determinism, use of animal research, scientific methods, and real-life applications in behavior therapy. This summary highlights key concepts such as operant conditioning and the implications for the justice system and treatment of phobias.
PsychologyExplore the key concepts of attachment through classical and operant conditioning. This summary covers Dollard and Miller's 'cupboard love' theory, the role of primary and secondary drives, and evaluates the strengths and weaknesses of learning theory in explaining attachment. Ideal for psychology students studying attachment theory.
PsychologyApp Store
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
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