The application of learning theory principles to personality and social development with emphasis on observational learning and reinforcement.
The theory that learning social standards and behavior occurs by observing and imitating others (e.g., family members, peers, or role models). Social learning also includes conforming, learning in context, and modeling. Theories of social learning were developed by the American psychologist, Albert Bandura, who used them, e.g., to explain the impact of media violence on the behavior of children and adolescents.