Social Cognitive View Integrates Social Learning and Cognitive Theories Reciprocal determinism Self-regulation Expectancy values & self-efficacy Attribution

Social Learning Theories Rotter: Expectancy Value Theory Bandura: Self-Efficacy Theory Common aspects of the theories: Interpretation of reality matters more than reality itself Individuals are conscious and rational Self-set goals play an important role

Rotter: Expectancy Value Theory Behavior Potential Likelihood of performing certain behavior BP is a function of: –reinforcement value of reaching the goal –psychological situation –expectancy that the behavior will attain the goal specific expectancies general expectancies (Locus of control)

Locus of Control Generalized outcome expectancy Belief about whether my behavior will influence my outcomes –internal (yes, my behavior makes a difference) –external (no, outside forces rule) external: powerful others external: god external: chance

Correlates of Internal LOC Less belief in authorities Less likely to conform More success oriented Better precautions More sports and exercise More political But also: Worse adjustment in institutional setting Less likely to learn from advice

Bandura: Self-Efficacy Definition: Belief in one's ability to successfully plan and execute the behavior that is necessary to reach a given goal Efficacy expectations are always specific for a certain area of performance Efficacy Motivation Performance

Benefits of High Efficacy Better performance at physical and cognitive tasks in the lab Mistakes are seen as learning experiences Better tolerance towards pain More positive responses to aging stereotypes Mediated by emotions: –Less anxiety –Positive emotions in the face of challenges

Increasing Self-Efficacy Active experience –All at once –Small steps Modeling/observational learning –Ideal model = similar model Verbal persuasion –“You can do it”

Bandura vs. Rotter Person BehaviorOutcome Efficacy Beliefs Strength Domain Generality Outcome Expectancies Physical Social Self-Evaluative

- Outcome Expectancies + - Efficacy Beliefs + Resignation Apathy Protest Social Activism Self-Devaluation Productive Engagement Satisfaction

Review Historical background Trait approach Biological approach Psychodynamic approach Phenomenological approach Cultural approach Behavioral approach Social cognitive approach