1
Aim
To demonstrate learning can occur through observation of role models (Social Cognitive Theory).
2
Method
Lab experiment using 72 children; half boys, half girls, ages 3-6
3
Procedures
Participants were divided into three groups based on aggression evaluations from the parents and teachers prior to the experiment
- Group 1: observed adult model behaving aggressively towards Bobo Doll
- Group 2: observed adult model playing peacefully with toys
- Group 3: control group; didn't see adult model
Participants were then taken into a room with a bobo doll and other toys where they were observed for 20 minutes
4
Results
Participants who observed the aggressive model showed significantly more aggression; both physically and verbally
- boys were more likely to imitate physical aggression
- girls were more likely to imitate verbal aggression
5
Conclusion
Learning can be indirect and new behaviors can be learned by simply observing them; supports the social cognitive theory.