A core concept learned in this unit was that of observational learning. The name is pretty straightforward and self explanatory, as observational learning occurs when humans and animals of a higher intelligence learn through observation. This is partially due to mirror neurons in the brain, that are activated during this. There are four specific elements that comprise observational learning. The behavior must be noticed, remembered, imitated, and the subject must be motivated to copy the behavior.
In a well known experiment, Albert Bandura conducted a test with a Bobo doll to study this concept. He had children watch adults interact with a Bobo doll, with one group observing the adult be polite and amicable, and the other observing the adult be aggressive and physically abusive towards the doll. Afterwards, he placed both groups in a room with toys. The children in the second group were far more likely to display aggressive tendencies, which supported the concept of observational learning.
However, it is important to remember the difference between correlation and causation. Studies have been conducted linking screen time and violence, but they were proven to be correlational.
When my little brother was younger, around the age of six or 7, many of his behaviors were learned through observational learning. One example in particular was when he watched my father reading. He would put on his reading glasses and settle into his armchair while swiping through a newspaper. Although my brother at the time arguably had no interest in everyday news and politics, he developed a habit of sitting in the exact same spot and pawing through the newspaper, just as my dad did. He learned this through observational learning, which supports the theory that children learn many things through simply watching others.
This is an interesting example of observational learning! I took an Anthropology class last semester, and I learned that only some advanced primates are capable of observational learning. I think that’s so cool! Your brother reading like your dad did is a relatively complex example, but observational learning can be as small as monkeys climbing through trees. I am curious to know the specifics of how our human brains combine observational learning as well as our other learning processes to make us as unique as we are. Likewise, I would love to be able to compare animal and human psychology to understand learning processes and how they differ. Great post!
Hi! I really enjoyed reading your post about Observational learning. I think you did a really good job of explaining the concept, as well as providing a relatable aspect of your life to it. I think it is funny that your brother eventually started to imitate your dad reading the newspaper, as I’m sure many of us picked up on habits our parents did when we were kids. I particularly think observational learning is interesting because it is amazing to think about how much our personalities/ actions are comprised of what we see others do!