Social Learning Theory - or - Social Cognitive Theory
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 |
'Theory at a Glance: A Guide for Health Promotion Practice' [PDF] National Institutes of Health, National Cancer Institute.
Comments
- Log in to post comments