1. Observational Learning
Learning by observing and watching others (the model)

2. Biological Findings
Mirror neurons in the frontal lobe by the motor cortex fire when an animal observes another performing a task and when the animal actually performs the task.
Mirror Neurons

3. Observational Learning
The Model - the person whose behavior the subject watches and imitates
Modeling - The process of observing and imitating a specific behavior

4. Observational Learning
Memes (rhymes with cream)- ideas, fashions and habits (cultural elements) passed on by imitation.
Example: Catch-phrases, ceremonies, foods, traditions, vices, and fads all spread by copying one another.

5. Modeled Behavior
What behaviors do your parents do that you do now?

6. Albert Bandura ( )
American psychologist who has done major studies in observational learning
Studies the consequences a model has on subjects
Bobo Doll experiments

7. Bobo Doll Experiments
Children watched an adult model show aggressive behavior toward a Bobo doll
Three experimental conditions:
The model was praised.
The model was punished.
The model received no consequences for the aggressive behavior.

8. Vicarious Learning
Learning by seeing the consequence of another’s behavior
Bandura said that reinforcement is not essential for learning to occur but the expectation of reinforcement affects the performance of what has been learned.

9. Bobo Doll Experiment

10. Bandura’s Bobo Dolls
Let’s watch the clip!

11. Factors that make us more likely to imitate:
Bandura said 4 cognitive processes are used in observational learning
Must pay attention to the other person’s behavior.
Must remember the other person’s behavior.
Must transform the memory into actions that you are capable of reproducing.
Must have some motivation for you to imitate behavior.

12. Antisocial/Prosocial Behavior
Antisocial behavior - negative, destructive, abusive, unhelpful behavior
Prosocial behavior – positive, constructive, helpful behavior
Both types of behavior can be modeled effectively.
How might TV programs effect the way we behave?

13. Observational Learning and media Violence
Modeling
Monkey see, monkey do!
Disinhibition
Get away with or are rewarded for violence
They always “get the girl/guy/money/car - etc.
Increased arousal
Works the audience up
Watch the fans at a sporting event
Watch your friends watch the WWF
Habituation
We become used to - desensitization