MCAT® ExamPsychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of BehaviorEasy
A child observes their parent consistently using a specific tone of voice and facial expression when reprimanding their pet. Later, the child uses the same tone and expression when 'scolding' their stuffed animal. This behavior is best explained by which of the following psychological concepts?
- AClassical conditioning
- BInsight learning
- CObservational learning
- DOperant conditioning
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Observational learning
The child is learning by watching and imitating their parent's behavior, which is the definition of observational learning.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Classical conditioning involves associating an involuntary response with a stimulus, not imitating observed behavior.
- B. Insight learning involves a sudden understanding of a problem's solution, without trial and error.
- D. Operant conditioning involves learning through rewards and punishments for one's own actions, not observing others.
Observational Learning
Learning that occurs through observing the behavior of others and the consequences of that behavior.
- Also known as social learning or modeling
- Key figure: Albert Bandura (Bobo doll experiment)
- Involves attention, retention, reproduction, and motivation
Memory trick: Observe, then absorb, then act.