Social Cognitive Theory vs Social Learning Theory
The distinction between social cognitive theory and social learning theory lies in the fact that social cognitive theory can be viewed as an expanded version of the social learning theory. In the field of psychology, significant attention has been given to the process of human learning, and the factors that motivate individuals to acquire and retain behavior. Social cognitive theory and social learning theory are two theories that have become widely popular within educational psychology. Both social cognitive theory and social learning theory emphasize the importance of observation as a method of learning. This article aims to explore the differences between these two theories.
What is Social Learning Theory?
The social learning theory was introduced by Albert Bandura. Unlike the Behaviorists, who believed that learning occurs primarily due to reinforcement and punishments, or conditioning, Bandura proposed that learning can occur as a result of observing others. People learn new things as they observe the actions of others, which is also known as vicarious learning. However, Bandura pointed out that the internal mental state plays a crucial role in the learning process. He also noted that observation and learning of new behavior do not guarantee a complete behavioral change.
When discussing the social learning theory, one cannot overlook the Bobo doll experiment. Through this experiment, Bandura demonstrated that just as in the experiment, children are influenced by the actions of individuals in society as they observe various individuals. He regarded these individuals such as parents, teachers, friends, etc. as models. The child not only observes but also imitates these actions. If these actions are followed by reinforcements, the actions are likely to continue, and if not, they can gradually disappear. Reinforcement does not have to be external all the time; it can even be internal. Both forms can influence and change individual behavior.
What is Social Cognitive Theory?
The social cognitive theory has its origins in the social learning theory introduced by Albert Bandura. In this sense, the social cognitive theory is a much-expanded theory that encompasses a variety of dimensions. According to this theory, in the social setting, learning takes place due to the continuous interaction of individuals, behavior, and the environment. It is important to note that the change in behavior or the acquisition of new behavior is not due to either the environment or the people or the behavior, but it is the interplay of all these elements.
This theory emphasizes that social factors, such as social influence and reinforcement, play a key role in acquiring, maintaining, and changing behavior. In this sense, individual behavior is a result of reinforcement, individual experiences, aspirations, etc. Some of the key concepts in social cognitive theory are modeling (observational learning), expectations of outcomes, self-efficacy, setting goals, and self-regulation.
What is the Difference Between Social Cognitive Theory and Social Learning Theory?
Definitions of Social Cognitive Theory and Social Learning Theory:
Social Learning Theory: Social learning theory highlights that people acquire new behavior (learn) through the observation of others.
Social Cognitive Theory: The social cognitive theory emphasizes that the acquisition, maintenance, and change of behavior is a result of the interplay of personal, behavioral, and environmental influences.
Characteristics of Social Cognitive Theory and Social Learning Theory:
Connection:
The social cognitive theory has its roots in social learning theory.
Self-Efficacy:
Social Learning Theory: Self-efficacy cannot be identified in social learning theory.
Social Cognitive Theory: The concept of self-efficacy is unique to social cognitive theory.
Focus on Cognition:
Unlike in the case of the social learning theory, in the social cognitive theory, the focus on cognition is greater.
Key Takeaways
- Social cognitive theory can be viewed as an expanded version of social learning theory.
- Social learning theory emphasizes that people learn through observing others, while social cognitive theory highlights the interplay of personal, behavioral, and environmental influences on behavior.
- The concept of self-efficacy is unique to social cognitive theory and not present in social learning theory.
