Transcript Observational Learning

Observational Learning
AP Psych 242-249
Observational Learning
Also called social learning
We learn by observing
and imitating the
behavior of others.
Modeling – We learn all
kinds of specific
behaviors by observing
and imitating models
Applications of Observational Learning
Catch phrases, clothing styles,
ceremonies, food, tradition,
culture – everything starts
somewhere and is imitated
Mirror Neurons
Mirror Neurons – Neurons that provide a neural basis for imitation
and observational learning.
These help us learn from others through observation
PET scans have shown that humans have a mirror neuron system
that support empathy and imitation.
Mirror Neurons Cont’d
Mirror neurons make emotions
contagious
We yawn after others yawn.
We laugh when others laugh.
We can understand others pain
because it is mirrored in our
own brains.
Bobo Doll Experiment
Prosocial Effects
Prosocial (positive,
helpful) models can
have prosocial effects.
If parents, role models,
leaders, etc. model
good behavior, children
are more likely to show
similar behavior and
attitudes.
Models are most
effective when their
actions and words are
consistent.
Antisocial Effects
When poor behavior is seen, children will also mimic that.
Ex. This explains why children whose fathers abuse their spouse
are more likely to be abusers themselves.
What argument can be made against violent video
games or television on the basis of observational
learning?
Correlation of TV and Violence
• In the US and Canada, homicide rates doubled between 1954
and 1974 when TV was introduced and spread. The same was
seen in other world regions when TV was introduced
•White South Africans were first introduced to TV in 1975. A
similar doubling of the homicide rate began after 1975.
•Elementary schoolchildren with heavy exposure to media
violence (TV and video games) also tend to get into more fights.
School Children and Fights Data
Two Factors of Television
Imitation – Children may imitate
acts of violence that they view on
television and in video games
Desensitized – prolonged
exposures desensitizes viewers to
violence they are used to seeing
on TV.
War began to be televised with Vietnam in the 1960’s and
1970’s. Do you think this has changed peoples perceptions of
war?