Free Bachelor of Arts in Psychology: Exploring Theories and Concepts Questions and Answers — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What concept suggests that behavior is influenced by the interplay of behavioral, cognitive, and environmental factors or situational variables?
- Triadic Reciprocality (Correct answer)
- Tri-variables
- Tri-stimuli
- None of the above
Correct answer: Triadic Reciprocality
Triadic reciprocality, a core concept in Albert Bandura's social cognitive theory, describes the dynamic and continuous interaction among three factors: personal (cognitive) factors, behavioral factors, and environmental influences. This model suggests that these three elements mutually influence each other, rather than one factor solely determining behavior. It highlights the complex interplay that shapes human actions and development.
Question 2: What is the theory that centers around observable behaviors and suggests that people learn new behaviors through external reinforcement or punishment, as well as by observing and imitating social factors in their environment?
- Maslow's hierarchy of needs
- Operant conditioning
- Social learning theory (Correct answer)
- Cognitive dissonance theory
Correct answer: Social learning theory
Social learning theory, primarily developed by Albert Bandura, emphasizes that learning occurs not only through direct experience with reinforcement and punishment but also through observing others. This theory highlights the importance of modeling, imitation, and cognitive processes in acquiring new behaviors, attitudes, and emotional reactions by watching social interactions and their consequences. It bridges the gap between behaviorist and cognitive theories.
Question 3: What are the phases or steps in the process of modeling and building self-efficacy throughout development?
- Modeling stages (Correct answer)
- Observational learning stages
- Cognitive stages
- Sensorimotor stages
Correct answer: Modeling stages
In social cognitive theory, the process of learning through observation and building self-efficacy involves several 'modeling stages.' These stages typically include attention (paying attention to the model), retention (remembering the observed behavior), reproduction (being able to perform the behavior), and motivation (having a reason to imitate the behavior). Successfully navigating these stages contributes to the development of self-efficacy, which is one's belief in their ability to succeed in specific situations.
What concept suggests that behavior is influenced by the interplay of behavioral, cognitive, and environmental factors or situational variables?