Concept:Albert Bandura’s Social Learning Theory explains that people learn new behaviors and cognitive skills by observing and imitating others, involving four key steps: attention, retention, reproduction, and motivation.
Explanation:Albert Bandura, an American psychologist, developed the Social Learning Theory, also known as observational learning or learning through imitation. His famous Bobo doll experiment showed that children imitate aggressive behaviors they see in adults. The theory emphasizes that learning occurs indirectly by watching others (models) in the environment, not only through direct experience. The process consists of four sequential steps:
1. Attention – The learner must focus on the model.
2. Retention – The observed behavior must be stored in memory.
3. Reproduction – The learner must be able to perform the behavior.
4. Motivation – The learner needs a reason (e.g., reward or internal drive) to imitate.
This theory stands apart from other theories like J.B. Watson’s Behavioural Theory (focus on external stimuli), Jean Piaget’s Cognitive Development Theory (focus on internal mental stages), and Sigmund Freud’s Psychosexual Development Theory (focus on early childhood stages).
Answer:Albert Bandura is associated with Social Learning Theory. The correct option is A.