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Social Learning Theory

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Name of Theory

Social Learning Theory

Synonyms

Social cognitive theory

Introduction

Social learning theory builds on behavioral and cognitive theories of learning and provides a model that accounts for the wide range of learning experiences. This theory illustrates how observing others can play a vital role in how we acquire new knowledge and skills. For social learning theory, biological factors are important, but not as important as learned observable behaviors.

Prominent Associated Figures

The structure of the theory is attributed to Albert Bandura (1963, 1969, 1977; Bandura and Walters 1963). His theoretical work was based on modeling and aggression studies. Neal Miller and John Dollard wrote the book Social Learning Theory which was a reinterpretation of psychoanalytic theory in terms of stimulus-response factors. Julian Rotter wrote Social Learning and Clinical Psychology (1954). He emphasized the holistic interaction between the individual and the environment.

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References

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  • Piaget, J. (1952). The origins of intelligence in children. New York: International Universities Press.

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Correspondence to Stanley Selinger .

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Selinger, S. (2019). Social Learning Theory. In: Lebow, J., Chambers, A., Breunlin, D. (eds) Encyclopedia of Couple and Family Therapy. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-15877-8_57-1

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-15877-8_57-1

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  • Publisher Name: Springer, Cham

  • Print ISBN: 978-3-319-15877-8

  • Online ISBN: 978-3-319-15877-8

  • eBook Packages: Springer Reference Behavioral Science and PsychologyReference Module Humanities and Social SciencesReference Module Business, Economics and Social Sciences

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