Social learning theory suggests behavior is influenced by what variables?

Social learning theory, primarily associated with Albert Bandura, posits that behavior is significantly influenced by both observation of others and the consequences of those observed behaviors, such as rewards and punishments. This theory emphasizes that individuals can learn new behaviors not just through direct experience but also by watching others, which is known as observational learning. When an individual sees someone else rewarded for a behavior, they are more likely to imitate that behavior themselves. Conversely, if they observe someone being punished for a behavior, they are less inclined to adopt that behavior.

This concept is a departure from traditional behaviorist theories, which suggest that learning occurs solely through direct reinforcement or punishment. By recognizing that behaviors can be learned vicariously, social learning theory highlights the role of social context and cognitive processes in understanding behavior. Thus, the influence of observing others and the outcomes associated with those behaviors forms the cornerstone of this theoretical framework.