IB Psychology SL 2.3.10 Social learning theory Question Bank

5. Evaluate social cognitive theory.

Refer to the paper 1 section B assessment criteria when awarding marks.
The command term "evaluate" requires candidates to make an appraisal of social cognitive theory by weighing up the strengths and limitations.

Although a discussion of both strengths and limitations is required, it does not have to be evenly balanced to gain high marks.

The main concepts of social cognitive theory may include, but are not limited to:
- imitation (for example, of role models)
- vicarious learning
- the role of attention, retention, motivation and reproduction/potential
- self-efficacy
- reciprocal determinism.

Relevant studies may include, but are not limited to:
- Bandura et al.'s (1961) study on observational learning and aggression in children
- Joy, Kimball and Zabrack's (1986) study on the impact of television on children's aggressive behaviour
- Sprafkin et al.'s (1975) study on children's prosocial behaviour and television
- Berry's (2003) study on how cross-cultural images and portrayals on television might influence the multicultural attitudes, values and beliefs of children
- Konijn et al.'s (2007) study that tested the effect of violent video games on aggression.
- Kearney and Levine's (2015) study on the impact of the TV show "16 and pregnant".

Evaluation may include, but is not limited to:
- the effectiveness of the theory in explaining behaviour
- the productivity of the theory in generating psychological research
- methodological, cultural and gender considerations
- contrary findings or explanations
- practical applications of the theory.

If the candidate addresses only strengths or only limitations, the response should be awarded up to a maximum of [3] for criterion D: critical thinking. All remaining criteria should be awarded marks according to the best fit approach.