Albert Bandura
Albert Bandura: The Social Cognitive Theory
Jerry D. Nicholson
Liberty University
Student ID: 21273100
PSYC 341
October 7, 2007
Abstract
Albert Bandura is one of the pioneers in the study of human development. His biographical background lays a good foundation for the basis of his work as a psychologist. His social cognitive theory will be examined in detail to highlight the effect that environment has on behavior. There are four basic features to the theory introduced by Bandura that will be discussed; (1) observational learning, (2) self-regulation, (3) self-efficacy, and (4) reciprocal determinism. All four features combined will prove to offer a keen insight into the environmental aspect of our behavior.
Albert Bandura: The Social Cognitive Theory
Often the course of our lives can be altered through unexpected circumstances and events. The Bible clearly teaches that plans made for the future can certainly be rearranged at a moment's notice. Advice is given in the Scripture to make sure that reliance is not placed on a set agenda, but rather the will of God. James 4:13-14 says, "Go to now, ye that say, today or tomorrow we will go into such a city, and continue there a year, and buy and sell, and get gain: Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away." There are occasions when chance encounters completely redirect the charted path that was originally intended to follow. These events play an important role in the basis for the social cognitive theory. Albert Bandura, one of the architects of the social cognitive theory, was born in the small town of Mundare, Alberta on December 4, 1925. He grew up the only boy in a family of six. His parents immigrated from Poland and the Ukraine while he was still a child. His childhood was marked by strong support from his older sisters. They encouraged him to be independent and self-reliant.
Jerry D. Nicholson
Liberty University
Student ID: 21273100
PSYC 341
October 7, 2007
Abstract
Albert Bandura is one of the pioneers in the study of human development. His biographical background lays a good foundation for the basis of his work as a psychologist. His social cognitive theory will be examined in detail to highlight the effect that environment has on behavior. There are four basic features to the theory introduced by Bandura that will be discussed; (1) observational learning, (2) self-regulation, (3) self-efficacy, and (4) reciprocal determinism. All four features combined will prove to offer a keen insight into the environmental aspect of our behavior.
Albert Bandura: The Social Cognitive Theory
Often the course of our lives can be altered through unexpected circumstances and events. The Bible clearly teaches that plans made for the future can certainly be rearranged at a moment's notice. Advice is given in the Scripture to make sure that reliance is not placed on a set agenda, but rather the will of God. James 4:13-14 says, "Go to now, ye that say, today or tomorrow we will go into such a city, and continue there a year, and buy and sell, and get gain: Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away." There are occasions when chance encounters completely redirect the charted path that was originally intended to follow. These events play an important role in the basis for the social cognitive theory. Albert Bandura, one of the architects of the social cognitive theory, was born in the small town of Mundare, Alberta on December 4, 1925. He grew up the only boy in a family of six. His parents immigrated from Poland and the Ukraine while he was still a child. His childhood was marked by strong support from his older sisters. They encouraged him to be independent and self-reliant.