The Communication Initiative Network

Where communication and media are central to social and economic development

E-magazines


Average Rating: 3.33 out of 5 (98 ratings submitted)

Social Learning Theory - or - Social Cognitive Theory

Theory Summary

In Social Learning Theory, human behaviour is explained in terms of a three-way, dynamic, reciprocal theory in which personal factors, environmental influences, and behavior continually interact. A basic premise of Social Learning Theory is that people learn not only through their own experiences, but also by observing the actions of others and the results of those actions. In the 1970s, Albert Bandura published a comprehensive framework for understanding human behaviour, based on a cognitive formulation which he named the Social Cognitive Theory. That framework is currently the dominant version used in health behaviour and health promotion; however, it is still often referred to as Social Learning Theory.

Concept
Definition
Application
Reciprocal Determinism
Behaviour changes result from interaction between person and environment; change is bi-directional
Involve the individual and relevant others; work to change the environment, if warranted
Behavioral Capability
Knowledge and skills to influence behavior
Provide information and training about action
Expectations
Beliefs about likely results of action
Incorporate information about likely results of action in advice
Self-Efficacy
Confidence in ability to take action and persist in action
Point out strengths; use persuasion and encouragement; approach behaviour change in small steps
Observational Learning
Beliefs based on observing others like self and/or physical results
Point out others' experience, physical visible changes; identify role models to emulate
Reinforcement
Responses to a person's behaviour that increase or decrease the chances of recurrence
Provide incentives, rewards, praise; encourage self-reward; decrease possibility of negative responses that deter positive changes

Source

'Theory at a Glance: A Guide for Health Promotion Practice' National Institutes of Health, National Cancer Institute.


Placed on the Communication Initiative site July 29 2003
Last Updated July 29 2003



How useful did you find the knowledge and contacts on this page to your work?


3.3
Average: 3.3 (98 votes)
Your rating: None

Post your comments (review comments from others below):

CAPTCHA
This question is for testing whether you are a human visitor and to prevent automated spam submissions.

COMMENTS POSTED


Very useful... the grid is good for quick digestion and reference... the link is helpful...

what is social change

good job! but too technical in some places. Perhaps more explanation with examples may help. Good effort though!

related concepts helpful, good work.

research on the theory should b included in it should

social learning and social cognitive are not the same.

i LIKE THE WAY YOU SUMMARISED THIS THEORY.

Help Seed The CI Network

Jobs and more...

Journalist/Reader Connection

What are the best possibilities for journalist-readership connections? (you may choose more than one; please add clarifying comments)