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Observational learning: Bobo doll experiment and social cognitive theory Video Lecture

FAQs on Observational learning: Bobo doll experiment and social cognitive theory Video Lecture

1. What was the Bobo doll experiment?
Ans. The Bobo doll experiment was a study conducted by psychologist Albert Bandura to examine the effects of observational learning on aggressive behavior. In the experiment, children observed an adult model interacting aggressively with a Bobo doll, and later, they were allowed to play with the doll. The study aimed to test whether the children would imitate the aggressive behavior they observed.
2. What were the findings of the Bobo doll experiment?
Ans. The findings of the Bobo doll experiment revealed that children who observed the aggressive behavior were more likely to imitate it when given the opportunity to play with the doll. This suggested that individuals learn through observational learning and are influenced by the behaviors they observe in others.
3. How does the Bobo doll experiment relate to social cognitive theory?
Ans. The Bobo doll experiment is closely related to social cognitive theory, which emphasizes the importance of observational learning in human behavior. The experiment demonstrated that individuals can learn and acquire new behaviors by observing others. This supports the key principle of social cognitive theory that people learn by observing and imitating the behaviors of others.
4. What are the key concepts of social cognitive theory?
Ans. Social cognitive theory proposes several key concepts. Firstly, it emphasizes that learning occurs through observation and imitation of others. Secondly, it highlights the importance of cognitive processes, such as attention, retention, and motivation, in learning from observation. Additionally, social cognitive theory emphasizes the role of self-efficacy, which refers to an individual's belief in their own ability to perform a particular behavior.
5. How can the findings of the Bobo doll experiment be applied in real-life situations?
Ans. The findings of the Bobo doll experiment can be applied in real-life situations to understand the influence of observational learning on behavior. For example, parents and teachers can be more mindful of their own behavior as children are likely to imitate what they observe. Additionally, media and entertainment industries can consider the potential impact of aggressive behavior depicted in movies, television shows, and video games, as individuals may imitate such behavior after exposure.
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